Tel Aviv – Israel has launched a new military offensive, dubbed “Operation Dawn,” targeting what it claims are militant strongholds in Gaza and parts of the West Bank. The operation comes at a time of mounting internal dissent, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing growing criticism from political rivals, security officials, and segments of the Israeli public.
Escalation on Multiple Fronts
According to the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), the operation involves a combination of aerial strikes, artillery fire, and special forces raids. Official statements say the focus is on dismantling rocket launch sites, command centers, and alleged weapons storage facilities. Palestinian sources, however, report civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, with local hospitals struggling to manage the influx of wounded.
The escalation follows weeks of heightened tensions, triggered by Israeli settlement expansions, raids on Palestinian towns, and clashes in Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa compound. Analysts warn that “Operation Dawn” could widen the conflict, drawing in other regional actors and risking a prolonged confrontation.
Political Pressure on Netanyahu
While Netanyahu projects the operation as a decisive security move, critics accuse him of using military action to shore up his political standing. Israel has seen waves of anti-government protests in recent months, fueled by economic concerns, judicial overhaul plans, and allegations of corruption against the prime minister.
Opposition leaders argue that Netanyahu’s decision-making is increasingly guided by political survival rather than long-term national interest. “Every time his approval ratings fall, we see a new military operation,” one opposition member said, accusing the government of ignoring diplomatic solutions.
International Reaction
The offensive has drawn mixed responses abroad. The United States reaffirmed its “ironclad” support for Israel’s right to defend itself, while several European and Middle Eastern nations called for restraint and a return to negotiations. Human rights organizations have urged an immediate ceasefire, warning that the humanitarian toll in Gaza could rapidly spiral.
A Region on Edge
With rockets fired into Israeli territory and airstrikes pounding Gaza, the conflict’s trajectory remains uncertain. “Operation Dawn” has the potential to reshape the region’s security landscape — but whether it brings stability or deepens the cycle of violence depends largely on the political decisions made in the coming days.
