As military hostilities resume in Gaza, a pivotal question emerges regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's political strategies.

The primary concern revolves around whether Netanyahu prioritizes appeasing the Israeli far-right or avoiding conflict with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The far-right factions, led by Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir, represent critical coalition partners in Netanyahu's government.

These groups push for sustained military action not only in Gaza but across the region, including potential engagements in southern Lebanon, the Golan Heights, and even as far as Iran.

This coalition provides Netanyahu with the necessary majority to maintain his government and a shield against domestic opposition and public protests.

Conversely, Trump advocates for diplomacy and de-escalation, aiming to secure a legacy as a peacemaker in the Middle East.

He perceives that intensified military actions could jeopardize his efforts to forge new agreements for peace in the region.

Trump's approach contrasts sharply with the aggressive military stance favored by the Israeli right.

Netanyahu's political maneuvering is characterized by a strategy of incremental concessions, seeking to satisfy the demands of various stakeholders piece by piece.

He attempts to project an image of a leader committed to the interests of all parties involved, including Trump, the far-right, the families of hostages, and protesters.

Central to Netanyahu's agenda is the need to maintain his political position while mitigating the risks of criminal prosecution or political repercussions following the events of October 7, 2023. His focus remains on ensuring continued governance up until the next Knesset elections in 2026, navigating the complex landscape of domestic and international pressures.