Netanyahu Faces Criticism Amid Ongoing Israel-Hamas Conflict

One year into the conflict ignited by Hamas's October 7 attacks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces growing criticism for his inability to secure strategic goals such as rescuing hostages and eliminating Hamas. The death toll in Gaza has risen sharply, with estimates of Palestinian casualties ranging from 42,000 to as high as 180,000. Despite military operations expanding into Lebanon, the situation has devolved into a stalemate, with neither side able to claim a definitive victory. Internally, Israeli public opinion is increasingly against Netanyahu's handling of the hostage crisis, leading to significant protests and strikes. Critics argue that Netanyahu's focus on maintaining his political status rather than a coherent war strategy is undermining Israel's national security. Observers point out that without a clear post-war plan, the conflict risks dragging on indefinitely, exacerbating humanitarian suffering and regional instability.