Egypt Daily News – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been accused of deliberately prolonging the war in Gaza against the recommendations of military leadership, driven by personal and political interests. The allegations were detailed in a six-month investigative report published by The New York Times, based on interviews with more than 100 officials from Israel, the U.S., and the Arab world, along with a review of dozens of official documents.
According to the report, Netanyahu made several key decisions that significantly influenced the course of the war, including ignoring repeated warnings from military commanders who argued that continued military operations were ineffective and counterproductive.
The investigation reveals that Netanyahu’s approach to Hamas before the conflict contributed to strengthening the group, allowing it time to prepare for war. In July 2023, he reportedly received an intelligence briefing warning that groups such as Hamas were closely watching Israel’s internal divisions, particularly those caused by his controversial judicial overhaul plan. Despite the warnings, Netanyahu proceeded with the reforms, exacerbating domestic political tensions.
Following the October 7 Hamas-led attack, Netanyahu allegedly sought to deflect blame from his administration, instead directing his media team to portray military commanders as responsible for what many regard as one of the most serious intelligence failures in Israel’s history. The government also attempted to restrict access to official meeting records and limited the documentation of military sessions to prevent political accountability.
The Times report also indicates that Netanyahu rejected an offer from the opposition to form a national unity government after the war began, choosing instead to maintain his alliance with far-right political parties—partners seen as essential to his political survival post-conflict. This decision, the report argues, left him beholden to extremist demands, particularly those opposing ceasefires or negotiations with Hamas, further delaying the war’s conclusion.
Documents cited by the newspaper show Netanyahu repeatedly ignored the military’s assessments during key phases of the conflict, including in April and July 2024. He also broke a January ceasefire agreement by launching fresh military operations in March, reportedly to maintain cohesion within his coalition.
The report also highlights Netanyahu’s pre-war strategy toward Hamas, suggesting that his leniency enabled the group’s military buildup. His broader political agenda, especially attempts to weaken the judiciary, contributed to internal fragmentation at a time when unity was crucial for national security.
The investigation concludes that Netanyahu’s wartime conduct has sparked significant debate within Israel, with growing concerns over the human and strategic cost of continuing the conflict, particularly when political calculations appear to outweigh military judgment.
After four days of meetings in Washington, Netanyahu concluded his visit without announcing any breakthroughs on a ceasefire agreement. He and his wife departed from Joint Base Andrews aboard U.S. President Donald Trump’s helicopter, before flying back to Tel Aviv.
Negotiations continue in Doha
Meanwhile, indirect talks between Israel and Hamas are ongoing in the Qatari capital of Doha. Now in their sixth day, the discussions aim to secure a ceasefire and arrange a prisoner exchange. While there is cautious optimism, negotiators acknowledge that serious divisions remain.
In an interview with U.S.-based Newsmax, Netanyahu indicated that a possible deal could result in the release of half of the remaining Israeli hostages, both living and deceased. He stated that around 10 captives are still alive, while Hamas holds about 12 bodies.
Netanyahu reiterated that Israel is open to ending the war but insisted that any agreement must meet Israel’s conditions, including the complete dismantling of Hamas within 60 days. Otherwise, he warned, military operations would resume.
He praised the U.S. administration, stating that President Trump had been “the most supportive of Israel in White House history” and that American backing was essential to the Israeli government’s military and diplomatic efforts.
