The ongoing tensions between Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have come to the forefront as they exchange criticisms over stalled talks for a ceasefire deal to free hostages held in Gaza. Gallant, in a private briefing, blamed Israel for the delay in reaching a deal, advocating for a ceasefire to end conflicts with Hezbollah and in Gaza. Netanyahu, on the other hand, accused Gallant of jeopardizing the hostage release deal by adopting an anti-Israel narrative. The heated exchange of words has highlighted the deep divide in opinions on how to handle the situation, with Gallant emphasizing the need to continue fighting to meet war goals, while Netanyahu insists on achieving “total victory.”
Hamas has also chimed in on the debate, with one of its leaders alleging that Netanyahu is prolonging the conflict for political gain, further complicating the already tense situation. The lack of progress in securing the release of hostages held in Gaza has been a point of contention, with both sides seemingly at odds over the best course of action.