Image credits: Daily Sabah
The United States Congress witnessed a controversial display of support as members stood and applauded in recognition of Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza, a conflict that has resulted in the deaths of approximately 40,000 civilians.
In Gaza, the Israeli military continues its aggressive campaign, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spent the past week in the United States, seeking further backing for Israel’s actions. Despite this united front, analysts point to a deepening divide between the military leaders and the government, particularly regarding the handling and objectives of the war. Israeli army spokesperson Daniel Hagari recently contradicted Netanyahu’s stance by stating, “Whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong.”
The divide is not merely tactical but reflects broader ideological clashes. The far-right’s growing influence within Israel’s political and institutional arenas exacerbates these tensions. This faction has been critical of the military’s role since the 2005 ejection of illegal settlements in Gaza, accusing the army of harboring an anti-Jewish bias in the West Bank. The far-right’s grip on Israeli politics now extends to crucial ministries and continues to pressure Netanyahu’s government.
Meanwhile, Gaza remains a humanitarian disaster zone. The UN’s humanitarian aid agency reported that hundreds of Palestinians are trapped in eastern Khan Younis amid intense hostilities, with rescue teams unable to reach them due to Israeli military restrictions. The daily volume of humanitarian aid entering Gaza has decreased by 56% since April, exacerbating starvation and disease risks.