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Navigating the Gaza Conflict: A Call for Change as Netanyahu Hinders Solutions – Urging Joe Biden's Intervention

Saturday, 16 December 2023 23:51 Opinion

Urgent Intervention Needed: Biden's Critical Role in Redirecting Israel's Path

In the face of a convoluted conflict in Gaza, the Israeli leader's opposition to a viable solution has become apparent, with his actions increasingly self-serving. President Joe Biden, whose profound connection to Israel and the Jewish people is deeply rooted, has exhibited unwavering support during the current crisis. From his prompt visit following the tragic 7 October massacre to deploying two US aircraft carriers to deter potential threats, Biden has consistently stood by Israel. Even at the United Nations, he wielded the US veto, signaling a lone stance against global calls for Israel to end its Gaza offensive.

Yet, amidst these gestures, a crucial task remains for Biden – a task uniquely within his capacity. He must actively work to remove Benjamin Netanyahu from power and ensure he does not return. The focus of US-Israeli relations is now time-sensitive, gauging how long Washington will permit its ally, armed by the US, to pursue its goal, even at the cost of significant casualties and destruction in Gaza.

Signals indicate that Biden's patience is waning. His recent warning that Israel is "starting to lose [international] support" due to indiscriminate bombings suggests a timeline until the middle or end of January for high-intensity military operations. Beyond that, a shift toward focused, targeted raids with fewer civilian casualties is expected.

However, Biden's role must extend further – confronting Netanyahu decisively. There are compelling reasons for Biden, known for his pro-Israel stance, to advocate for Netanyahu's departure. Looking beyond the immediate conflict, considerations arise concerning the aftermath of Hamas rule in Gaza. Netanyahu's refusal to entertain any Palestinian Authority involvement, despite U.S. advocacy, risks excluding Palestinians entirely from governing Gaza.

As the situation intensifies, Biden's intervention becomes pivotal, holding the potential to redirect Israel's trajectory and usher in a more constructive and inclusive future for the region.

Netanyahu's Political Calculations Amidst Gaza Crisis

In the complex landscape of Palestinian politics, the dominance of Hamas and Fatah leaves little room for alternative substantial groups to assume authority. Benjamin Netanyahu's opposition to Biden's plan suggests that, in his view, the only acceptable options for Gaza involve either a coalition of Arab states, an implausible scenario given their reluctance, or the unacceptable alternative of reoccupation by Israel.

Netanyahu's stance is rooted in a refusal to entertain anything resembling a step toward Palestinian statehood, as evidenced by the categorical rejection of a Palestinian state by Tzipi Hotovely, the Israeli ambassador to the UK. Hotovely's remarks, echoing Netanyahu's position, undermine a central defense of Israel's current strategy – the removal of Hamas to pave the way for a two-state solution.

Critics argue that Netanyahu's priorities lie more in securing his political future than advancing Israel's national interests during a time of war. Facing corruption charges and potential imprisonment, he appears desperate to retain his position. This self-serving approach has led him to deflect blame onto military and intelligence chiefs for failures surrounding the October 7th incident, despite evidence suggesting he ignored clear warnings of impending danger. Furthermore, Netanyahu's reluctance to engage with the grieving families and attend funerals indicates a fear of public backlash, underscoring the alleged prioritization of personal political survival over national responsibility.

Netanyahu's Silence: A Threat to Israel's Future

As the Gaza crisis unfolds, Benjamin Netanyahu's inaction in the face of far-right coalition members making reprehensible threats is not only a disaster for Palestinians but also undermines Israel's international support, acknowledged by President Biden. Unspeakable calls for the destruction of Gaza and the arming of extremists by security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, convicted of terrorism charges, add to the chaos.

Netanyahu's reluctance to rein in the hard-right elements within his coalition, out of fear for political repercussions, reveals a leader more focused on personal political survival than the well-being of the nation. This self-serving approach extends to his failure to confront extremists provoking conflict in the West Bank.

Retired General Noam Tibon, a hero of the October 7th incident, warns that Netanyahu's leadership poses a significant danger to Israel's interests, asserting that victory in the war is unattainable as long as he remains in power. President Biden, known for his cool reception of Netanyahu, faces a critical decision. Despite potential reluctance to intervene in ally Israel's domestic affairs, Biden must consider the precedent set by Bill Clinton in the 1990s. Clinton, acting out of friendship, compelled Netanyahu into peace talks and agreements that were initially disliked by the Israeli PM but were ultimately crucial for progress.

Biden's unique influence in Israel could shape events decisively. The families of hostages held by Hamas implore, "Save Israel from Netanyahu." Biden, perhaps the only person in the world with the power to act on this plea, should heed the call and take decisive action for the sake of regional stability.

Jonathan Freedland, a columnist for The Guardian, presents a thought-provoking analysis in this article, shedding light on the critical issues surrounding Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership amidst the ongoing Gaza crisis. His perspective delves into the far-reaching implications for both Palestinians and Israelis, emphasizing the disastrous consequences of Netanyahu's political maneuvers and the potential damage to Israel's international standing.

Freedland's call for President Biden's intervention, given the precarious situation and the unique influence he holds, resonates with the urgency of the moment. The article raises questions about Netanyahu's prioritization of personal political interests over the nation's welfare, bringing attention to the silence in the face of extremist threats within his coalition.

As readers, we are prompted to reflect on the complexities of the situation, considering the broader impact on regional stability and the potential repercussions of Netanyahu's leadership. The mention of past diplomatic interventions, such as Bill Clinton's engagement with Netanyahu in the 1990s, adds historical context to the discussion and suggests possible pathways for resolution.

In response to Freedland's analysis, readers are invited to share their opinions on the matters discussed. The opportunity to submit responses for publication in the letters section provides a platform for diverse perspectives, fostering a dialogue on the issues at hand. This engagement empowers readers to contribute to the ongoing conversation, enriching the public discourse surrounding the complexities of the Gaza crisis and its implications for Israel and the broader geopolitical landscape.

In conclusion, Jonathan Freedland's insightful analysis in The Guardian sparks contemplation on the critical issues surrounding Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership during the ongoing Gaza crisis. As readers, we are urged to consider the ramifications of Netanyahu's actions on both Palestinians and Israelis, contemplating the potential damage to Israel's international reputation.

Freedland's call for President Biden's intervention underscores the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the need for a nuanced approach to address the complexities of the crisis. The article prompts reflection on Netanyahu's political maneuvers, questioning whether his decisions align with the national interest or are driven by personal political calculations.

The historical context provided, citing Bill Clinton's diplomatic interventions in the 1990s, adds depth to the discussion and suggests potential strategies for resolving the current crisis. As readers, we are encouraged to engage in the ongoing dialogue by submitting responses for publication in the letters section, contributing to a diverse and meaningful exchange of perspectives.

Ultimately, Freedland's piece invites readers to actively participate in shaping the narrative surrounding the Gaza crisis, recognizing the significance of public discourse in influencing broader understanding and potential solutions. The open invitation for reader responses underscores the importance of fostering a collaborative dialogue to navigate the complexities of the geopolitical landscape in the Middle East.

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