Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has condemned the military’s plan to implement daily tactical pauses in Gaza conflict to allow for aid delivery.
These pauses are intended to facilitate aid movement from the Kerem Shalom Crossing to Salah al-Din Road and northwards. Netanyahu’s opposition highlights internal political tensions regarding the handling of aid to Gaza, amid warnings of a humanitarian crisis.
The criticism also underscores broader divisions within Netanyahu’s coalition and between the government and military over the war strategy and conscription policies for the ultra-Orthodox community.
Despite international calls for a ceasefire, the conflict, which began after a deadly Hamas attack on October 7, continues with heavy casualties on both sides.
1. Netanyahu’s Criticism: Prime Minister Netanyahu opposed the military’s plan for daily tactical pauses to allow aid into Gaza, deeming it unacceptable.
2. Military Announcement: The military had planned daily pauses from 0500 GMT to 1600 GMT to facilitate aid delivery, while normal operations continued in Rafah.
3. Political Tensions: The reaction from Netanyahu and other coalition members, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, reveals significant political divisions.
4. Internal Conflicts: The coalition is experiencing internal conflicts, exemplified by Defence Minister Yoav Gallant’s defiance in a vote on conscripting ultra-Orthodox Jews.
5. Humanitarian Crisis: International organisations warn of a growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 37,000 Palestinians killed and significant destruction reported.
6. Ongoing Conflict: Despite international pressure, a ceasefire remains elusive. Fighting in Gaza continues, with spillover conflict along the Israel-Lebanon border.
7. Public Sentiment: Opinion polls indicate Israeli support for destroying Hamas, yet there is public frustration over the government’s efforts to secure the release of hostages taken on October 7.
