Netanyahu ignored personal baiting internationally and death-threats domestically to brilliantly stand up for Israel’s war aims, restore deterrence, and put the onus on Hamas and the Iranian axis, without alienating the United States.

As the world watches the unfolding conflict between Israel and Hamas, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again demonstrated his unparalleled skill in navigating one of the most complex political and military landscapes of our time. The latest ceasefire negotiations, conducted under intense international scrutiny, are a testament to Netanyahu’s strategic acumen and his unwavering commitment to Israel’s security and sovereignty.

Even his fiercest critics admit his skill with words and persuasive powers, but his management of the war and his steadfast refusal to concede has dramatically improved Israel’s position.

In the midst of one of the most challenging periods in Israel’s history, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has once again proven his mettle as a leader who will not waver in the face of adversity. As ceasefire negotiations with Hamas reached a critical juncture, Netanyahu’s steadfastness has not only preserved Israel’s war aims but has also significantly strengthened its deterrence and strategic posture.

Amid mounting international pressure, particularly from the Biden administration, Netanyahu faced intense demands to avoid escalating the conflict by refraining from advancing into key areas such as Khan Yunis, Rafah, or the strategically vital Philadelphi Route along the Gaza-Egypt border. These areas have long been recognized as critical hubs for Hamas operations, including smuggling and military buildup. Yet, despite the diplomatic and media clamor for restraint, Netanyahu held firm, refusing to compromise on Israel’s right to neutralize threats that endanger its citizens.

Netanyahu’s decision to stay the course, resisting the temptation to bow to external pressures, has been vindicated by the results on the ground. By targeting and eliminating key Hamas leaders and infrastructure, Israel has not only disrupted the terrorist organization’s operational capabilities but also sent a powerful message about the consequences of aggression. This calculated strategy has improved Israel’s deterrence, reminding both Hamas and the broader region that Israel will not hesitate to take decisive action when its security is threatened.

The international community, often quick to push for immediate ceasefires that leave underlying issues unresolved, has struggled to grasp the importance of Netanyahu’s approach. Unlike past conflicts where ceasefires were brokered under duress, often leading to a re-escalation of violence, Netanyahu’s insistence on achieving concrete military objectives before agreeing to a ceasefire has fundamentally altered the dynamics of the conflict. His refusal to be swayed from his course has ensured that any ceasefire will not merely serve as a temporary pause in hostilities, but rather as a step towards a more secure and stable future for Israel.

Netanyahu’s resolve has also enhanced Israel’s strategic posture in the region. By demonstrating that Israel will not be deterred from pursuing its security objectives, even in the face of significant international pressure, Netanyahu has reasserted Israel’s independence in decision-making. This is particularly evident in the successful elimination of key Hamas leaders, a move that has not only disrupted the organization’s command structure but also reestablished Israel’s dominance in the region. These actions have not only bolstered Israel’s deterrence but have also reshaped the strategic calculus of Israel’s adversaries, forcing them to reconsider the risks of future confrontations.

Furthermore, Netanyahu’s deft handling of U.S. diplomatic pressures has been a masterclass in balancing international relations with national security imperatives. Despite the United States’ calls for immediate restraint, Netanyahu has maintained a strong alliance with Washington while making it unequivocally clear that Israel’s security is non-negotiable. This delicate balance, achieved without alienating key allies, underscores Netanyahu’s exceptional leadership.

Israelis still favor him as their leader, and Likud seems well on its way to restoring its tarnished credentials in the public’s mind.