Netanyahu’s ‘Forever War’ Strategy Splits US and Israel as Gaza Death Toll Mounts
The United States and Israel are increasingly at odds over how to end the war with Iran, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pursues a strategy that analysts say is driven by his own political survival rather than shared US priorities. Washington wants an exit from a conflict that is disrupting oil markets and growing unpopular at home, but Netanyahu, facing elections by the end of October and a criminal investigation, is betting on a new “hexagon of alliances” that risks deepening global rifts [170083][169001].
Netanyahu announced the “hexagon of alliances” in February 2026, a network of six nations united against what he called “radical axes.” The plan aims to build a stronger bloc of countries, but experts warn it could push other nations into opposing camps, creating wider and more dangerous divisions [169001]. The policy focuses on linking nations that share security concerns but does not explain how to manage relations with countries outside the alliance, potentially isolating Israel and its partners [169001].
Meanwhile, a new documentary titled “Planet Israel” argues that Netanyahu is prolonging war to avoid corruption investigations. The film claims that since the 7 October attack, Netanyahu has normalized a cruel political culture, needs far-right allies to stay in power, and indefinitely delay legal scrutiny of his alleged corruption. It calls civilian deaths in Gaza an international scandal [165113].
Historian Omer Bartov’s new book traces Israel’s moral and political decline over decades, from a celebrated democracy to a state accused of war crimes. Bartov points to the illegal occupation of Palestinian territories, ethnic cleansing in the West Bank, genocide in Gaza, the invasion of Syria, and the relentless bombardment of Lebanon. The United States’ participation in the “illegal war” confirmed for many in the region that Israel is a western imperialist outpost, the book argues [144553].
The US and Iran have begun indirect negotiations in Oman, widely seen as a crucial, final effort to prevent a major regional war. Diplomats are meeting to establish basic rules of military engagement, aiming to stop sudden attacks from escalating into a broader conflict. These discussions are separate from stalled negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program [81450].
The success or failure of these talks could decide the stability of the entire Middle East [81450].