Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked widespread opposition from various sectors in his decision to escalate the war in Gaza, disregarding humanitarian crises already caused by the conflict. While Netanyahu believes he needs to “finish the job” and complete the defeat of Hamas, many Israelis, including families of captives held in Gaza and former security officials, object to the escalation.
Netanyahu’s plan involves seizing Gaza City and central camps as well as al-Mawasi in the south. However, his far-right coalition members are not entirely on board with the idea. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir still support Netanyahu’s coalition, but their loyalty seems conditional.
On the other hand, the security establishment strongly opposes the plan. Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and several senior Israeli officers have expressed concerns that Netanyahu is creating a “trap” that would further erode the army and endanger lives of remaining captives.
The Israeli public also largely rejects Netanyahu’s plan. Tens of thousands of people, including families of captives and soldiers killed in Gaza, have protested against the decision to escalate the war. A poll found 74% of Israelis support a negotiated end to the war that would see the return of roughly 50 captives remaining in Gaza.
Groups representing families of captives and those affected by the conflict are organizing a general strike on August 17 to save the lives of hostages and prevent further families from joining the bereaved. The opposition, including leaders Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz, have condemned the escalation as a “disaster that will lead to many more disasters” and a “political failure”.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/8/14/does-anyone-in-israel-support-the-plan-to-escalate-its-offensive-in-gaza