He clung on through war, but can he survive peace?

Some question whether Benjamin Netanyahu can keep hold of his far-right coalition, but analysts tell Taz Ali that the great survivor of Israeli politics may find a way to carry on

- Taz Ali

A deal for the release of all hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian captives has been met with celebration in both Israel and Gaza, where it is widely seen as a breakthrough that signals an end to the war.

A deal for the release of all hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian captives has been met with celebration in both Israel and Gaza, where it is widely seen as a breakthrough that signals an end to the war. Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu has agreed to the initial terms of a deal which promises at least a ceasefire, if not a permanent end to the conflict. But it leaves questions over his political future, which has largely hinged on continuing the war in Gaza.

Analysts have argued that Netanyahu prolonged the war as a tactic to remain in power, given the likelihood that he would lose a future election. Critics also say the war has served as a distraction and delay to the long-running corruption case against him, which Netanyahu has denounced as a witch hunt, consistently and vehemently denying any wrongdoing.

Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader, faced widespread near-weekly protests in the year before the war began in October 2023 over his controversial plans for judicial reform, and the International Criminal Court has since issued a warrant for his arrest for alleged war crimes committed in Gaza. a position to make life very difficult for Netanyahu - and Netanyahu knows that.”