In recent days, Israel has been navigating a complex international diplomatic landscape. Predictably, many countries that remained silent during the last 11 months, when Hezbollah indiscriminately targeted the Galilee without any justification, are now calling on Israel to halt its attacks in Lebanon to prevent further “escalation.” This is not a new phenomenon; throughout Israel’s history, international pressure has been a significant factor that the country has had to consider in every war.
Now, as the northern front increasingly resembles a third Lebanon war, with Israel carrying out hundreds of strikes daily, severely damaging Hezbollah’s capabilities, Israel must also contend with this international pressure. For example, yesterday, U.S. statements suggested that Prime Minister Netanyahu had agreed to a three-week ceasefire with Hezbollah to negotiate a permanent end to the conflict. However, Netanyahu later denied these reports, and the Israeli Air Force continued its extensive strikes. The question arises: Did Netanyahu change his position due to domestic pressures, as many coalition members opposed the ceasefire, or was this a tactical move in the international arena to buy time and maintain Israel’s legitimacy?
Netanyahu arrived in New York recently and is expected to give a speech tonight at 9:30 AM local time (4:30 PM Israel time) at the UN General Assembly. The Prime Minister is expected to deliver a speech that will clarify Israel’s objectives in the current conflict and the reasoning behind its actions. Although the contents of Netanyahu’s speech remain confidential, given the significance of the occasion, it is likely to include a memorable catchphrase that could make it one of the defining speeches of his career. In Israel, citizens from both the political right and left are hoping that Netanyahu’s speech will grant Israel the diplomatic leeway needed to achieve its objectives in the war.
