Results for: Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has called on the Biden administration to resume its planned weapons deliveries to Israel, expressing concern over a perceived delay in military aid. He made the request during a meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken last week, stating that it is ‘inconceivable’ for the U.S. to withhold crucial resources while Israel battles Hamas in Gaza. The request comes as the Biden administration faces criticism from House Republicans over a recent $404 million aid package for Gaza, with concerns about the potential for Hamas to benefit from the funds.

Anti-government protests have escalated across Israel, fueled by dissatisfaction with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s leadership during the ongoing Gaza conflict. Demonstrators are calling for immediate elections, a ceasefire, and the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The protests highlight deep divisions within Israeli society over the war’s objectives, Netanyahu’s handling of the crisis, and the influence of his far-right coalition partners.

Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified, raising concerns of a full-scale war. Hezbollah, an Iran-aligned militant group, opened a battlefront with Israel in October, following a deadly Israeli raid in Gaza. Israel has warned it is prepared for a military operation along its border with Lebanon. The US has cautioned against escalation, fearing it could harm Israeli security. The UN has expressed concern and called for de-escalation. The conflict has displaced thousands along the border and is being fueled by Hezbollah and Hamas attacks on Israeli military installations.

Netanyahu’s upcoming address to a Joint Meeting of Congress has sparked a deep divide among Democrats. Progressives such as Rep. Ilhan Omar oppose the invitation, citing Netanyahu’s alleged crimes and policies. Meanwhile, party leaders like House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer support it. This divide underscores the growing tension within the Democratic coalition over the Middle East and Israel-Palestine relations. Despite attempts by House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar to de-escalate tensions, many Democrats remain at odds over Netanyahu’s appearance.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar over alleged war crimes. Amal Clooney, an international law expert and wife of actor George Clooney, was among the experts who advised the ICC on seeking the warrants. The ICC’s chief prosecutor, Karim Khan, determined that the court has jurisdiction over crimes allegedly committed in Israel and the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu condemned the decision as a “travesty of justice,” while Clooney expressed support for the legal action.

In the wake of the Gaza conflict and Netanyahu’s right-wing government’s policies, the American Jewish community is facing a crisis of identity. There is now a dispute over US commitment to supporting Israel and over Zionism itself, which used to be the basis of most American liberal Jews’ self-identity. While some believe that Zionism and liberalism are incompatible, others argue that it is more important than ever to support Israel’s security while demanding an end to the disproportional killing of innocent civilians.

Hundreds of protesters gathered outside Prime Minister Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea to demand the immediate release of abducted Israeli nationals. The protest coincided with the Jewish festival of Passover, which symbolizes liberation from slavery.

Following the October 7 attack by Hamas, the Israeli defense establishment is facing potential fallout. The resignation of a top brass officer has set the stage for possible additional resignations, including the IDF’s Chief of Staff, Gen. Halevi, and the Director of Shin Bet. Opposition voices are demanding Prime Minister Netanyahu’s resignation as well.