Since this morning in Israel, he has been facing a wave of criticism.
Until now, political oppositions had been discreet, so as not to appear disloyal to the patriotism demanded by the war. But since the ceasefire was signed, they have abandoned all reserve against Benyamin Netanyahu.
He is responsible for the “biggest political disaster in history” – those are the words of the opposition leader.
Yair Lapid believes that Netanyahu has not achieved any of the goals he had set for himself: ending the Iranian nuclear threat and overthrowing the regime.
Furthermore, Israel did not participate in the ceasefire negotiations, notes the centrist opponent.
Benjamin Netanyahu is criticized from both his left and his right. The ultranationalist Avigdor Liberman rages against this pause in the fighting, which he believes “offers a breath of fresh air to the ayatollahs.”
Is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu therefore weakened?
Yes, six months before the upcoming elections in Israel, polls indicate he is losing.
His rivals will campaign on the theme: “Netanyahu is the one who failed to convince the United States to continue the war.”
What a contrast with the investigation (paying/in English) from the New York Times published yesterday! Very informed, it recounts how the Israeli Prime Minister managed to involve Donald Trump in the conflict.
It was on February 12th, two weeks before the first strikes. A confidential meeting in the White House crisis room. Netanyahu presents his arguments for an hour, facing President Trump, surrounded by a few close associates. A “decisive” moment, writes the American newspaper.
This link with Donald Trump is exactly the advantage that Benjamin Netanyahu intends to highlight. He wants to show that he embodies the strongest link with the American protector.
As noted by historian Frédérique Schillo, an Israel specialist, Donald Trump is also invited on April 22nd, the day of Israel’s independence. The American President will receive the Israel Prize, the country’s highest honor, equivalent to the Legion of Honor.
And then there is also the question of Lebanon…
Israeli bombings continued intensively today, despite the ceasefire. The “largest coordinated strikes” since the beginning of the conflict, claimed by the Israeli army.
Benjamin Netanyahu wants to disconnect the two fronts: Iran and Lebanon.
The Israeli army strikes Shiite militia members, allies of the Iranians. It also targets infrastructures, such as bridges, because terrorists use them. Not to mention civilian casualties, displacements, international protests, including those from France.
Today, the Pakistani mediator called on all parties to show restraint. But in Lebanon, the Israeli Prime Minister wants to continue the fight. To show his opponents that he has the upper hand, and it does not tremble.
