Today, Tel Aviv faced significant backlash regarding its renewed operations in the Palestinian enclave from a coalition of countries. France, Britain, and Canada have informed Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that they will not remain passive this time in response to what they perceive as an unnecessary military campaign.
The UK has already suspended any trade agreements with Israel, describing the current actions of the Netanyahu government in Gaza as “unacceptable.” Although Netanyahu has dismissed the criticisms from these three nations, claiming they are on “the wrong side of history,” it is clear that a growing number of Western nations are voicing strong objections to the Israeli tactics.
Ultimately, the continuation of the conflict in Gaza, which escalated following the “Black Sabbath” on October 7, 2023, does not hinge on the support of European nations. Israel’s reliance is primarily on Washington. Despite any existing tensions between Trump and Netanyahu, the US is unlikely to halt its support immediately. However, the coalition forming against Benjamin Netanyahu is considerable and influential. If the Israeli prime minister opts for a counteroffensive, it is likely that the three nations—plus Spain, which has long criticized Israeli actions—could grow in number and diplomatic strength.
The current risk for Israel is severely damaging its reputation in the West. The operations known as Gideon’s “chariots” are built upon the foundation of previous actions, such as the iron swords, and Tel Aviv maintains that Hamas continues to pose a threat. The global shock from Hamas’s extreme actions in 2023, resulting in over 1,200 deaths and nearly 300 kidnappings, pales in comparison to the alarming decision by Tel Aviv to halt humanitarian aid that passes through just two border crossings, effectively condemning surviving civilians to slow starvation.
As long as Israel persists with this strategy—demanding the expulsion of Hamas leaders, the unconditional surrender of weapons and hostages, and total Israeli control over Gaza—it risks undermining its narrative that it has the right to defend itself against those who seek its destruction.
Another major issue for the country is Netanyahu’s insistence on clinging to power by maintaining a situation that could potentially be addressed through diplomatic channels. His far-right allies, Ben Yvir and Smodris, are the only ones voicing concerns, as their agenda favors complete control over Gaza and the West Bank.
The official death toll in Gaza has now surpassed 53,000, not to mention the countless individuals still unaccounted for and buried under rubble. This crisis is increasingly becoming a burden for the local government. Netanyahu has struggled to manage the fallout from his rift with Trump, and those who previously held reservations are now adopting the hardest line seen in decades.
Benjamin Netanyahu, who is far from “unknowledgeable” during these trying times, must take the warning from Europe seriously. Should this coalition grow and attract additional support, the situation will not be limited to isolated talks. If the European Union chooses to act decisively, it is plausible that Israel will face escalating pressure in the coming months, while the US watches indifferently as “Bibi” falls.
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