As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's actions against Iran bolster his political standing, new opportunities emerge in the ongoing Gaza conflict, raising questions about upcoming negotiations.
Netanyahu's Military Strategy Changes Landscape in Gaza Conflict
Netanyahu's Military Strategy Changes Landscape in Gaza Conflict
Israeli Prime Minister finds political advantage amid ongoing conflict as military actions shift dynamics.
June 24, 2025, 1:00 p.m. ET
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained his hardline stance in Gaza for the past 18 months, a period marked by the threat of his coalition government collapsing, leading to potential early elections that could see him ousted from power. However, recent military successes against Iran, including U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, have significantly reshaped his political landscape.
Polls show a surge in support for Netanyahu amid public enthusiasm for his aggressive Iranian campaign, lifting his approval ratings to levels not seen since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023. This newfound strength in his political position allows him to consider a more flexible approach toward negotiations regarding Gaza, although he continues to maintain strict demands, including the unconditional surrender of Hamas.
Political analyst Mitchell Barak notes Mr. Netanyahu’s current fortitude, stating, “When you’re that strong, you can make that deal, you can end the war in Gaza — and not be afraid that your government is going to collapse or that you’re going to be thrown out of office.”
However, Netanyahu's office remains resolute, reiterating its prerequisites for peace, insisting that Hamas must release hostages and relinquish control of Gaza before any truce can be discussed. “Hamas is the only obstacle to ending the war,” a statement from his office asserts, further solidifying the rigid terms that have characterized his administration’s policy towards the conflict.
Demonstrations continue in Israel, with public sentiment pushing for the return of hostages held in Gaza since the start of the conflict. While Netanyahu's military and political strategy appears to have solidified his current power, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained his hardline stance in Gaza for the past 18 months, a period marked by the threat of his coalition government collapsing, leading to potential early elections that could see him ousted from power. However, recent military successes against Iran, including U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, have significantly reshaped his political landscape.
Polls show a surge in support for Netanyahu amid public enthusiasm for his aggressive Iranian campaign, lifting his approval ratings to levels not seen since the onset of the Gaza conflict in October 2023. This newfound strength in his political position allows him to consider a more flexible approach toward negotiations regarding Gaza, although he continues to maintain strict demands, including the unconditional surrender of Hamas.
Political analyst Mitchell Barak notes Mr. Netanyahu’s current fortitude, stating, “When you’re that strong, you can make that deal, you can end the war in Gaza — and not be afraid that your government is going to collapse or that you’re going to be thrown out of office.”
However, Netanyahu's office remains resolute, reiterating its prerequisites for peace, insisting that Hamas must release hostages and relinquish control of Gaza before any truce can be discussed. “Hamas is the only obstacle to ending the war,” a statement from his office asserts, further solidifying the rigid terms that have characterized his administration’s policy towards the conflict.
Demonstrations continue in Israel, with public sentiment pushing for the return of hostages held in Gaza since the start of the conflict. While Netanyahu's military and political strategy appears to have solidified his current power, the path to peace remains fraught with challenges.
