The conflict with Iran provides potential advantages for Netanyahu, including bolstering his stance against regional threats and delaying his corruption trials.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long portrayed Iran as a major threat to Israel, and recent U.S.-backed strikes against Iran mark a significant escalation. According to Al Jazeera, these actions have resulted in over 1,400 deaths in Iran and around 1,000 in Lebanon from related strikes, weakening Iran's regional influence.
In the context of the war, Netanyahu's efforts to convince the United States to participate have succeeded, with President Donald Trump supporting the conflict from the outset. This partnership enhances Israel's position and diminishes the power of Iran's allies, such as Hezbollah and the Syrian government under Bashar al-Assad.
Netanyahu's Domestic Legal Challenges
Netanyahu is currently on trial for three corruption charges stemming from 2019. The war has led to delays in these proceedings, as Netanyahu has used the conflict to justify postponements and avoid hearings, according to reports from Al Jazeera.
During a news conference on March 12, Netanyahu described his trial as an 'absurd circus' and called on Israel's President Isaac Herzog to intervene, potentially allowing him to focus on the war. However, the Ministry of Justice stated earlier that month that a pardon would be inappropriate while the trial continues.
Judicial Reforms and Political Gains
Netanyahu's coalition has pushed for judicial overhauls, including measures to limit the attorney general's powers and increase government control over media. These efforts faced opposition but have advanced amid the war, as noted in Al Jazeera's coverage.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid accused the coalition of prioritizing these reforms during the conflict, despite his support for the war. Oil prices have surged due to the conflict, raising global economic concerns, but for Netanyahu, the war offers opportunities to strengthen his political standing and regional alliances.
In the U.S., some Democrats and figures like Tucker Carlson and Joe Rogan have criticized the war, highlighting diplomatic rifts, yet Netanyahu may view these as secondary to his gains. The depletion of Iran's 'Axis of Resistance' could position Israel as the dominant power in the region, per the analysis.
While the war's outcome remains uncertain, Netanyahu has achieved U.S. backing and potential long-term security benefits. This situation allows him to argue for uninterrupted focus on diplomacy and conflict resolution.
