Yaakov Katz

America remains invested, at least for now, and continues to view Israel’s security as part of its own strategic interest. The question is whether Israel can learn to navigate that reality.

Israel can either lead or be led. It can shape the outcome of this war and the future of Gaza and of this conflict, or it can wait until everyone else decides for them.

The government cannot define the endgame, and the people cannot imagine closure without the hostages. That is why the world steps in; frustrated by the vacuum, it wants to define Israel’s future. 

Netanyahu's vision for the future is an Israel in a hunkered-down status against the world.

Did the strikes in Qatar move the country closer toward ending the war and bringing the hostages home, or did it push both goals further away?

As Israel approaches the end of the war, true victory hinges on securing the release of hostages and dismantling Hamas, not just military success on the battlefield.

“Bring them home” sounds like it is directed at the Israeli government when, really, the call should be directed at Hamas, which should “release” the hostages immediately. 

If the government pressure finally pushes Eyal Zamir to quit, it will just be another victory in the October 7 coalition’s campaign to deflect blame.

Arye Deri's return to politics, despite multiple convictions, highlights the deep divisions within Israel and threatens the unity needed during wartime.

No one could have known for certain back in 2005 what would happen next, how just two years later, Hamas would violently seize control of Gaza and that it would lead to the October 7 massacre.