Since the outbreak of the war on Gaza on October 7, 2023, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu made grand promises, most notably the complete eradication of Hamas and a transformation of the security reality in the region.
However, after more than 15 months of relentless bombing, destruction, and civilian casualties in Gaza, none of these objectives have been achieved. Instead, Israel finds itself in an increasingly dire political and military predicament.
Netanyahu declared in the early days of the war that the battle would not end until Hamas was entirely eliminated, pledging that this would be the “final war” against the movement. Yet, the reality on the ground has proven otherwise. The Palestinian resistance remains steadfast, and its operations persist despite Israel’s intensive strikes.
According to Israeli military sources, Al-Qassam Brigades have retained their ability to conduct sophisticated operations and have even recruited thousands of new fighters, reflecting the failure of Israel’s military strategy to achieve its stated goals.
Among Netanyahu’s promises was the liberation of Israeli captives through military force without resorting to negotiations. However, events unfolded differently, as Israel ultimately had to engage in indirect negotiations with Hamas through international mediation, culminating in the announcement of a ceasefire agreement on Wednesday.
Despite Israeli government claims of achieving “military successes,” the political and field realities indicate that Israel has become mired in a war of attrition. International criticism and mounting internal pressures now threaten the future of Netanyahu’s government.
