Netanyahu Engages in Feuds with Military, Coalition, and Washington Amid Gaza Conflict

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing mounting challenges from all sides as he navigates the ninth month of the war against Hamas. In a series of public spats with his military leadership, right-wing coalition partners, and the White House, Netanyahu finds himself increasingly isolated and under pressure to deliver on his promises of “total victory.”

The conflicts with his allies come at a critical juncture in the war, with the military signaling a desire to ease combat operations in Gaza and pursue a cease-fire to bring home remaining Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, Netanyahu’s right-wing allies have drawn international condemnation for their hawkish stances on the war and Palestinian rights, putting the Israeli leader in a difficult position as he tries to balance competing interests.

The most high-stakes conflict for Netanyahu is with the Biden administration, which has provided political cover and key weapons for Israel’s military campaign. Despite finalizing a major arms sale to Israel, tensions flared when Netanyahu criticized the U.S. for withholding certain munitions, prompting a sharp response from the White House.

While the Biden administration has expressed frustration with the direction of the war, there is little indication that U.S. support for Israel will significantly wane in an election year. Netanyahu still enjoys strong backing from Republicans in Washington, who are rallying behind him as he faces challenges on multiple fronts.

At home, Netanyahu is also facing a feud with his military leadership, with the armed forces’ chief spokesman publicly criticizing his calls for “absolute victory” over Hamas. The military has indicated a desire to wind down the fighting in Gaza and is close to defeating Hamas’s forces in key strongholds.

As Netanyahu grapples with these internal and external challenges, the future of the war and his own political survival hang in the balance. The Israeli leader’s ability to navigate these conflicts and maintain support from key allies will be crucial in the coming days and weeks.