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.