Israel is facing a challenge in justifying its ongoing war on the Gaza Strip as it witnesses a decline in its battle for international public opinion. The country relies on international support to continue the war, which has already entered its second month. However, Israel's army has been unable to achieve its desired goals, making the situation even more concerning for Tel Aviv.
Shifting Public Opinion
Initially, Israel gained Western support, especially from the United States, by highlighting the scenes of settlements surrounding the Gaza Strip during the Al-Aqsa Flood operation. However, as images of destruction and killing in Gaza emerged, international public opinion started to lean in favor of the Palestinians. This shift is evident in demonstrations taking place in Arab, European, and international capitals, including the United States.
The Dominance of the Palestinian Narrative
Israeli Channel 12 recently acknowledged that a new reality has emerged after a month of war. The international media now focuses on images of killing and destruction in Gaza, rather than scenes from the settlements. This shift in narrative affects public opinion worldwide and influences the priorities of Israeli leaders. Consequently, the Israeli army is under pressure to act quickly, as no one knows when the countdown timer will end.
UN and International Institutions
The UN and other international institutions continuously broadcast scenes of killing and destruction in Gaza, while urging for a ceasefire and condemning the prevention of essential supplies from entering the region. Despite Israel's credibility among people worldwide, it is dissatisfied with the positions taken by these organizations.
Israel's Struggle for Breathing Space
Israel finds itself unable to secure the breathing space it desires, which may hinder the achievement of its goals or force it to rush, increasing the likelihood of mistakes. The country entered this war without concrete plans for the future, making this point, a month into the conflict, crucial for its continuation.
Angry International Opinion
Former Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has been actively seeking support for the war by appearing on local television stations. He aims to strengthen Israel's position in public opinion, Congress, and the administration to grant the IDF leaders the freedom to eliminate Hamas. Bennett acknowledges that international public opinion is not currently in Israel's favor.
Israel's Media Efforts
The Israeli army has deployed reserve soldiers and official spokesmen to speak to foreign media in defense of the war. Additionally, numerous Israeli journalists have been mobilized to promote the Israeli narrative through social media platforms.
Jewish Demonstrations Against the War
Israel was taken aback by the participation of Jews worldwide in demonstrations supporting a ceasefire in Gaza and an end to the war. Jewish groups in the United States played a notable role in these demonstrations, which took place in cities like New York, Washington, and San Francisco.
Israel's Concern
Israel expresses concern about the growing opposition to the war through demonstrations worldwide. Bennett even went as far as attacking these protests, which attracted hundreds of thousands of participants globally. He expressed his disbelief at the number of pro-Hamas protests, particularly in New York.
Source: Anadolu Agency
