Netanyahu’s Reluctance to Accept Responsibility for Hamas Attack Leads to Blame on Others

6

A significant number of Israeli officials have publicly acknowledged their oversight in failing to anticipate Hamas’ aggressive assault on Israeli settlements on October 7. This attack instigated the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s name is glaringly missing from the list of those taking responsibility.

In the aftermath of this devastating assault, which marked the most casualties Israel has faced in a single day since its establishment 75 years ago, Netanyahu has consistently avoided taking responsibility. Instead, he has been quick to place the blame on others. Observers argue that his actions reflect a leader more concerned with preserving his political position than guiding a nation grappling with trauma.

Biographer and journalist Anshel Pfeffer noted, “Netanyahu seems to prioritize his personal survival over leading Israel’s confrontation with Hamas. In his bid for self-preservation, he is willing to discredit those leading Israel’s military and intelligence sectors.”

The unexpected breach of Israel’s defense systems by numerous Hamas militants caught Israel’s highly regarded security forces by surprise. Approximately 1,400 lives were lost before reinforcements arrived hours later. As per Palestinian health authorities, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 9,000 Palestinians and left several parts of the Gaza Strip in ruins.

The recent events have shattered the previous belief held by many within Israel’s military, intelligence, and political spheres: that Hamas had no intention of initiating a new conflict and that Israel’s military strength would act as a deterrent.

In the aftermath of the attack, leading figures in Israel’s security establishment, such as the military chief of staff, the defense minister, and the director of the Shin Bet (Israel’s internal security service), publicly admitted their lapse in judgment.

Netanyahu commented on the situation a couple of weeks post-attack, stating, “This catastrophe will be scrutinized. Everyone, including myself, will be held accountable.” Nevertheless, he has dismissed critics and refuted calls for his resignation.

He asserted to the media, “My primary objective is to ensure Hamas is relegated to the annals of history.”

Furthermore, Netanyahu’s handling of the crisis has been a point of contention. He has been criticized for not rallying the nation with a potent, inspiring message or gesture. Many locals felt that U.S. President Joe Biden, who visited Israel shortly after the attack, better fulfilled this role.

Netanyahu’s delay in meeting families of those believed to have been abducted by Hamas, primarily from liberal communal farms that typically don’t support him, was another focal point of criticism. Additionally, the economic downturn and the government’s perceived sluggish response to the needs of 250,000 displaced Israelis have drawn ire.

The most significant controversy arose when Netanyahu, in a late-night social media post, laid the blame squarely on his security advisors, asserting they had provided no prior warning about Hamas’ plans. Instead, he claimed their counsel had indicated Hamas was effectively deterred.

Benny Gantz, a previous military chief of staff and currently in a coalition with Netanyahu, chastised him for this public proclamation, urging a retraction.

Although Netanyahu subsequently deleted the contentious post and expressed regret, many believe the harm was irreversible. Idit Shafran Gittleman, of the Institute for National Security Studies in Israel, remarked that the faith in Israel’s security apparatus has hit an all-time low.

Historically, Netanyahu’s disagreements with security advisors are not uncommon. Shafran Gittleman highlights Netanyahu’s previous reluctance to heed their warnings regarding potential national security risks from proposed judicial reforms. Senior reservists and fighter pilots, pivotal figures in the military, had threatened to quit over the reforms, but have since resumed duties.

Some allies of Netanyahu and staunch supporters from his nationalist base argue that the criticism directed at him is both unwarranted and ill-timed. They assert that those in the media and the public who have been long-standing critics are now seizing this opportunity.

Undoubtedly, this assault and its aftermath have posed a monumental challenge to Netanyahu’s extended leadership. His reputation as a resolute leader committed to Israel’s defense is now in question.

Recent polls indicate a significant decline in support for Netanyahu’s Likud Party. The majority of the public now sees his chief political rival, Gantz, as more suitable for leadership. Should elections be conducted in the present climate, Netanyahu’s existing coalition would likely struggle to secure adequate backing.

Netanyahu’s tendency to deflect blame during crises is not unprecedented. He has previously dismissed allegations in a corruption trial as a media-driven campaign against him.

In a separate incident the previous year, Netanyahu testified at an inquiry concerning the tragic deaths of 45 individuals during a stampede at a Jewish pilgrimage site. He claimed ignorance about potential causes, stating, “One cannot be held accountable for what one is not aware of.”

Noam Tibon, an ex-military general and vocal critic of the aforementioned judicial reforms, rescued his family from the recent Hamas attack. He emphasized the nation’s need for solidarity during this conflict, suggesting that Netanyahu’s actions are causing division.

Tibon posed a critical question for Israelis, “Do they truly believe that Netanyahu can lead Israel to a triumphant conclusion in this war?”

For comprehensive coverage, visit: https://bigbignews.net/israel-hamas-war.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about fokus keyword: Netanyahu’s Accountability

More about fokus keyword: Netanyahu’s Accountability

• The Israel-Hamas War Overview
• Netanyahu’s Political Journey
• Understanding the Israel-Hamas Conflict
• Recent Developments in Israeli Politics
• Profile of Benny Gantz
• Hamas’ Strategy and Intentions
• Impact of Hamas Attack on Israeli Public Opinion