As Israel continued its military operations against Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his political rival, Benny Gantz, announced the formation of an emergency unity government to address the ongoing crisis. This move represents a significant departure from bitter political divisions that have roiled the country and has been sparked by mass protests.
The joint announcement of the emergency government and war Cabinet came as Israeli soldiers reported finding 1,200 victims in the battle-torn southern towns, highlighting the severity of the situation. This conflict, described as the worst attack in Israel’s 75-year history, has led to significant casualties and destruction on both sides.
Gaza officials reported over 1,000 people killed in Israel’s relentless campaign of air and artillery strikes on the densely populated Palestinian enclave. The devastation in Gaza has been substantial, with entire city blocks reduced to ruins. Israel, in response to rocket attacks from Hamas, has amassed forces, tanks, and heavy armor around Gaza.
Prime Minister Netanyahu characterized the conflict as “an attack whose savagery… we have not seen since the Holocaust.” The crisis has been compared to “Israel’s 9/11,” reflecting its gravity and impact on the nation.
In the midst of this turmoil, Netanyahu and Gantz, former Defense Minister and leader of a centrist party, have set aside their political differences to form a unity government and war Cabinet. As part of this agreement, Netanyahu has pledged to freeze his government’s contentious judicial overhaul plan, which has been a catalyst for widespread protests in the country.
While extreme-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish allies of Netanyahu will remain in the government, opposition leader Yair Lapid has not joined the temporary alliance. However, the joint statement mentioned that a seat would be “reserved” for him in the war Cabinet.
One of the most pressing concerns during this conflict has been the fate of at least 150 hostages, primarily Israelis but also including foreign and dual nationals, held by Hamas in Gaza. The militant group has claimed that some captives have died in Israeli strikes and has threatened to harm other hostages if civilian targets are bombed without advanced warning.
The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has also worsened, with over 260,000 residents forced from their homes, according to a UN aid agency. The EU has called for the establishment of a “humanitarian corridor” to allow civilians to flee the enclave, which is enduring its fifth war in 15 years.
