Gaza:US report cited by the Israeli newspaper Maariv, Israel is facing multiple crises that have pushed the nation to the brink of civil war or political collapse. The report highlights a combination of political polarization, economic pressures, and tensions surrounding mandatory military conscription as key factors contributing to the instability.
According to Palestine News and Information Agency – WAFA, The US report, published by the website "Drop Site News," includes a warning from the CIA that years of conflict in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran have exacerbated political, economic, and social divisions within Israel. The crises are unfolding as the Israeli Knesset elections, scheduled for October 27, approach, adding to the country's internal challenges.
The report also addresses an economic crisis and increased military spending, which have been compounded by the return of army troops from extended combat, with some suffering from severe psychological trauma. Issues such as the conscription crisis, particularly the exemption of Haredi Jews from military service, are noted as sources of societal resentment. Additionally, the escalation of settler violence in the West Bank is mentioned as a contributing factor.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is at the center of a political crisis as he struggles to retain power. The report notes that Israel's international isolation, coupled with declining support in the US, is contributing to its growing status as a "near-pariah state," which could lead to further disintegration.
Netanyahu, who leads what is described as the most right-wing government in Israel's history since December 2022, faces domestic challenges including corruption charges that could lead to imprisonment if convicted. He is also wanted by the International Criminal Court for charges related to war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza. As the elections near, the Jewish opposition bloc is reportedly leading in opinion polls, although it lacks a sufficient majority to form a government.