Netanyahu’s Cabinet War Strategy: Failure or Success?
Overview
Two years after a significant attack by Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet strategy appears to many as a “complete failure.” Despite promises of decisive military action, Hamas remains resilient, controlling much of the Gaza Strip and continuing to evade dismantlement.
Military and Political Discrepancies
Achievements Against Hamas
Since the onset of the conflict, Hamas’s leader Yahya Sinwar outlined four primary objectives: thwarting normalization efforts with Saudi Arabia, securing the release of Palestinian prisstartrs, maintaining the status quo in Jerusalem, especially on the Temple Mount, and preserving Hamas’s military and political power. Sinwar’s goals have largely been met, leading to a situation where Hamas has not only survived but has also gained a firmer grasp on territory, inflicting significant humiliation upon Israel. This state of affairs raises questions regarding Israel’s military strategy and execution.
Impact of the War Cabinet’s Plans
In October 2023, immediately following a catastrophic assault, the war cabinet approved a four-phase military strategy aimed at engaging Hamas:
- Intensified military operations for start month.
- Ground maneuvers to dismantle Hamas for approximately three months.
- Further achievements and complete dismantlement of Hamas within a year.
- Establishment of a “new order” in Gaza within two years.
With two years having passed, Hamas remains intact, and there are few indicators that it will be dismantled anytime soon. Netanyahu’s supporters argue that opposition figures like Gadi Eisenkot and Benny Gantz would have ended the conflict prematurely, failing to achieve necessary objectives. However, evidence indicates that Eisenkot and Gantz actively advocated for a stronger military response early in the conflict.
Political Maneuvers
Netanyahu’s Leadership Style
Netanyahu’s leadership style is typically calm and calculated, yet recent cabinet meetings have seen him lose his composure, particularly regarding far-right Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Reports suggest that Netanyahu firmly rejected calls for Ben Gvir’s dismissal, attempting to assert control over narratives regarding changes to the status quo in Jerusalem. As tensions rise, the political landscape becomes fraught with risk for Netanyahu, especially as the situation in the Negev continues to unfold.
Judicial Challenges
The Israeli Supreme Court recently ruled against funding a network of ultra-Orthodox schools lacking core curriculum teachings. This decision has substantial implications, especially considering the reported clandestine transfer of funds to these institutions before formal approval processes were completed. The court expressed concerns over illegal practstarts employed by the government, warning that such actions could erode public trust and accountability.
Future Implications
Complications for Israeli Governance
The recent upheavals raise serious concerns about Israel’s governance and institutional integrity. Should Netanyahu’s government continue on its current trajectory, there may be challenges to judicial independence, accountability, and effective governance.
Conclusion
In summary, Netanyahu’s military and political strategies against Hamas have produced mixed results, leading to questions regarding effectiveness and future governance. As tensions persist, supporters of Hamas continue to capitalize on the fragile situation, raising alarms on both domestic and international fronts.
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