The real reason Netanyahu won’t end the Gaza war

The Israeli public has increasingly opposed the ongoing war, leading to widespread protests demanding a ceasefire and the return of hostages. Despite this public discontent, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his commitment to continue the conflict. The political landscape in Israel, shaped by the 2022 elections, has resulted in a right-wing coalition that holds a significant majority in the Knesset, making it difficult for opposition voices to effect change. Netanyahu's government, which includes his Likud party and other far-right factions, is unlikely to shift its stance due to the lack of rebellion among coalition members. The defense minister, Yoav Gallant, has publicly criticized Netanyahu's handling of the war, but this dissent has not translated into a broader political threat to the government. The ultra-Orthodox party Shas has shown some interest in a hostage deal, yet they do not appear willing to jeopardize the coalition over it. Religious Zionism, a key player in the coalition, is firmly in favor of continuing the war, further solidifying Netanyahu's position. As protests grow, the opposition struggles to convert public dissatisfaction into political leverage, leaving the current government largely unchallenged. The combination of a strong parliamentary majority and the commitment of coalition partners to the war effort suggests that Netanyahu's administration is likely to persist in its current course despite the rising calls for peace from the public.