Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a challenging week as protests erupted outside the Knesset and his official residence, demanding a hostage deal and early elections. The week culminated in a rebuke from US President Joe Biden over the killing of seven humanitarian aid workers by the Israeli military and the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Despite mounting pressure, Netanyahu's hold on power remains firm. His chief political rival and a member of the war cabinet called for early elections, intensifying the political climate. However, Netanyahu's governing coalition has not shown signs of imminent collapse, and he shows no inclination to step down.
Aviv Bushinsky, a former adviser to Netanyahu, highlighted the complex challenges facing the Israeli leader, both domestically and internationally. While Netanyahu's approval ratings are low, the focus in Israel remains on the stability of the coalition.
The situation underscores the intricate political landscape in Israel, where internal and external pressures are at play. Netanyahu's ability to navigate these challenges will determine the future of his leadership and the country's political direction.