(Scypre.com) – In a significant political maneuver, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has disbanded the six-member war Cabinet, a move that underscores escalating tensions within his government amid ongoing military operations and domestic political rivalries.
The decision, confirmed by an Israeli official on Monday, follows the departure of Benny Gantz, a key centrist figure and former general, from the emergency government. Gantz’s exit marked a critical shift in the coalition dynamics, prompting Netanyahu to reconfigure his inner circle of advisers.
Instead of the traditional war Cabinet, Netanyahu plans to convene what insiders are calling “the kitchen cabinet,” a smaller forum aimed at facilitating more agile decision-making in the face of mounting challenges on multiple fronts.
The formation of the war Cabinet was initially a response to Hamas’ October 7 attacks, which had prompted Gantz to join forces with Netanyahu in a unity government. The group included not only military strategists like Gantz and his associate Gadi Eisenkot but also political figures such as Aryeh Deri of the Shas party, albeit in observer roles.
However, Gantz and Eisenkot’s recent resignations, citing Netanyahu’s alleged lack of strategic direction in the ongoing conflict now spanning eight months, precipitated a crisis within the coalition. Political analysts view these developments as part of a broader power struggle ahead of potential elections.
“I think a lot of this is domestic politics and jockeying for potential upcoming elections,” remarked Paul Salem, Vice President for International Engagement at the Middle East Institute. “Netanyahu is feeling a bit stronger than he did a little while ago.”
Netanyahu’s political maneuvers have not gone unnoticed on the international stage, particularly amid strained relations with the United States over Israel’s military actions. The Prime Minister’s handling of security matters, criticized by some for lapses leading to Hamas’ initial attacks, has also become a focal point of domestic discourse.
Despite the political turmoil, the conflict’s toll continues to mount, with over 37,000 casualties reported in Gaza and significant displacements on both sides of the border. The situation has drawn concern from international mediators, including the United States and France, who are actively pursuing diplomatic solutions to ease tensions along Israel’s borders with Lebanon and Gaza.
On Monday, Netanyahu met with Amos Hochstein, a White House envoy tasked with defusing border tensions with Lebanon, following warnings from Israeli military officials about escalating threats from Hezbollah. The Iran-backed militant group has intensified its cross-border activities, prompting retaliatory airstrikes from Israel and exacerbating fears of broader regional instability.
“Hezbollah’s increasing aggression is bringing us to the brink of what could be a wider escalation,” cautioned Israeli military spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. “Israel remains committed to defending its borders and ensuring the safety of its citizens.”
Amidst these challenges, Hezbollah has continued its military engagements, signaling a precarious balance that threatens to engulf Lebanon and the wider region in further conflict. The group has indicated its readiness to cease hostilities contingent on Israel’s actions in Gaza, setting the stage for complex negotiations and potential breakthroughs in diplomatic efforts.
As Israel navigates these turbulent waters, the future of Netanyahu’s government hangs in the balance, with political stability at home and international relations abroad deeply intertwined with the outcome of ongoing military and diplomatic maneuvers.