NYT Accuses Netanyahu of Prolonging and Expanding Gaza War for Political Gains

Kokcha News Agency details that the NYT has compiled a comprehensive report suggesting Netanyahu’s war aims are driven by his political survival strategies. The investigation, which includes transcripts of cabinet meetings, intelligence assessments, war plans, and court records, indicates that the Israeli leader has intentionally extended and widened the conflict, rather than seeking a quick resolution.

According to the report, from before the conflict’s beginning up to the recent events of March 18, there have been numerous internal discussions revealing that Netanyahu’s primary motive was to maintain power and weaken domestic opposition through sustained military operations. The NYT claims that Netanyahu has repeatedly dismissed ceasefire proposals due to threats from far-right ministers who wanted to keep the offensive ongoing to prevent government collapse.

Sources suggest that Netanyahu’s tactic of sabotaging peace negotiations—particularly around the Gaza-Egypt Philadelphi Corridor—aimed at radicalizing the situation to justify expanded military actions against Hezbollah, Iran, and regional actors. Although a broader ceasefire was reached in January 2025, Netanyahu reportedly terminated it in March, resulting in the death of many innocent Palestinians, the death of Israeli hostages, societal divisions, damage to Israel’s international image, and an escalation of ICC arrest warrants against Israeli officials.

Part of the report claims that these actions helped Netanyahu deliver political gains, consolidate control over military and civilian agencies, and position himself favorably ahead of upcoming elections by demonstrating strength against Iran and regional enemies.

Israel’s Response and Denial:
The Israeli Prime Minister’s Office issued a sharp denial, accusing NYT of baseless allegations aimed at tarnishing Netanyahu’s reputation. The statement emphasized that Netanyahu has been the key figure managing targeted and successful operations against Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria, Yemen, and Iran.

The Office further claimed that the high-level officials cited in the report had been removed from their positions and that Netanyahu did not breach ceasefire negotiations but simply “refused to agree to impossible conditions,” citing internal disagreements rather than political motives. The spokesperson also insisted that Netanyahu did not sabotage peace efforts but only refrained from acting under what they called “untenable circumstances,” clarifying that the differences stem from strategic disagreements, not corruption or political manipulation.