Netanyahu Faces Growing Criticism Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict

JERUSALEM, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is encountering mounting pressure as criticism of his government’s actions in Gaza deepens. Reports of war crimes and genocide are coming not only from foreign leaders but also from former Israeli prime ministers, raising serious concerns about his political future.

The Israeli public’s sentiment is increasingly turning against the ongoing war, which many believe Netanyahu is prolonging to maintain his hold on power. A recent Channel 12 poll showed that a majority of Israelis think Netanyahu is more focused on political survival than on the safe return of captives taken during the recent Hamas-led assault on October 7, 2023.

Protests in Israel have shifted focus from the captives to the humanitarian impact of the war on Gaza, with many demonstrators highlighting the suffering of Palestinian children. The military, too, feels the strain; reports of reservists refusing to join the fight are rising, with open letters from current and former officers calling for an end to the conflict.

Former prime ministers Ehud Barak and Ehud Olmert have openly criticized Netanyahu. Barak emphasized the need for a deal to free captives, while Olmert accused Israel of committing war crimes. Olmert stated, “This is now a private political war,” a critique aimed directly at Netanyahu’s motivations.

Netanyahu has also been accused of manipulating the war for his political ends, particularly after breaking a ceasefire with Hamas in March. More than ever, his coalition faces threats of collapse as tensions rise surrounding the conscription of ultra-Orthodox men.

Additionally, Netanyahu’s administration is now allegedly arming clans in Gaza to undermine Hamas, despite fears that these weapons could be turned against Israeli troops. This controversial tactic was revealed after right-wing lawmaker Avigdor Lieberman leaked information about the military’s support for local militias.

As international condemnation grows, the support Netanyahu receives from the U.S. and President Donald Trump remains crucial. Despite a call for action from several nations, including Canada and the U.K., Netanyahu’s current standing hinges on maintaining that crucial foreign support.

With his corruption trial in progress, Netanyahu’s political maneuvers and the war in Gaza have intertwined, raising questions about his ability to navigate the growing crisis. However, political observers remain uncertain about his future, suggesting he may still find ways to survive. “I can’t see any more magic tricks that are available to him,” said former aide Mitchell Barak.