This article examines how the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has been exploited for political gain by Benjamin Netanyahu and Donald Trump. It argues that Netanyahu has deliberately perpetuated Palestinian suffering through policies like the 18-year blockade of Gaza, using periodic military operations and collective punishment to maintain his image as Israel's indispensable security leader, particularly during times when he faced corruption charges.
The piece highlights the political kinship between Netanyahu and Trump, noting their similar backgrounds in media, shared "outsider" personas, ability to survive scandals, and use of divisive rhetoric. It details how Trump's unprecedented support for Netanyahu—including moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem and recognizing Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights—provided political cover for increasingly harsh policies toward Gaza.
The article documents various violations of international law, including disproportionate use of force, targeting of civilian infrastructure, restrictions on humanitarian aid, and collective punishment through the blockade. It argues that both leaders have turned the humanitarian emergency in Gaza into a tool for political survival, with military escalations often conveniently timed to coincide with elections or corruption investigations.
Josh contends that this cynical manipulation of Palestinian suffering has created a cycle where harsh policies generate resistance, which justifies military action, which creates more humanitarian crisis, which in turn justifies continued hardline rule. The piece concludes by calling for the international community to enforce accountability and break this cycle of impunity, arguing that until leaders who exploit humanitarian crises for political gain are held responsible, peace remains impossible and human rights remain empty promises.
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