Deep Dive
What were the key challenges Benjamin Netanyahu faced in 2024?
Netanyahu faced significant challenges, including managing the aftermath of the October 2023 Hamas attacks, which resulted in 1,200 deaths and 240 kidnappings. He was also bogged down in conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, with tens of thousands of Israelis evacuated from their homes. Additionally, he ended the year on trial for corruption and faced an International Criminal Court arrest warrant for alleged war crimes in Gaza.
How did Netanyahu's reputation as 'Mr. Security' change in 2024?
Netanyahu's reputation as 'Mr. Security' was severely undermined by the October 7th Hamas attacks. Despite Israel's success in targeting Hamas and Hezbollah leadership and weakening Iran, many Israelis, especially those displaced from the North and South, do not feel safer. They believe the conflicts are merely postponed, not resolved.
What is the status of the hostages still held in Gaza, and how has Netanyahu addressed this issue?
As of the end of 2024, 101 hostages remain in Gaza. Families of the hostages feel Netanyahu has not done enough to secure their release, and some believe he avoids deals with Hamas to maintain his hard-right coalition government. Despite several proposed deals, including one backed by Biden, Netanyahu has not acted, prioritizing his political position over the hostages' return.
How has Netanyahu responded to his domestic and international legal challenges?
Netanyahu has taken steps to avoid his domestic corruption trial, including relocating the court for safety reasons. He dismisses the International Criminal Court arrest warrant as anti-Semitic and denies allegations of war crimes in Gaza. He continues to focus on maintaining power and avoiding jail, while also tightening control over media and the Supreme Court.
What are Netanyahu's main objectives for 2025?
Netanyahu's primary goals for 2025 are to remain in power, avoid jail, and maintain a military presence in Gaza, potentially mirroring the occupation of the West Bank. He also hopes for U.S. support, particularly from Trump, for a joint Israeli-American attack on Iran's nuclear facilities, aiming to topple the Iranian regime.
- Unprecedented attacks on Israel's borders from multiple fronts
- 1200 people murdered, 240 kidnapped
- Tens of thousands of Israeli citizens evacuated
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