Netanyahu’s war choices fuel discord in Israel over captives’ fate in Gaza

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sparked internal divisions in his coalition by choosing not to free all Gaza captives during a ceasefire instead, drawing criticism for prolonging the conflict. His decision has strained government relationships as critics accuse him of using the crisis for personal gain, while also facing public backlash over an attack last October that killed hundreds of Palestinians and extended the war into its 19th month without a clear post-conflict vision. Additionally, reservists have withdrawn from enlistment amid fatigue or ideological objections, with concerns growing about Haredi community exclusion from military service as public discontent mounts.