Netanyahu is faking a hostage deal as the Houthis make an impact

In recent days, we’ve seen Aryeh Deri, Rabbi Yosef, Shas party, and Likud MKs suddenly advocating for a deal. What has changed after nine months that they’ve discovered the importance of “Pikuach Nefesh” (saving lives) or redeeming captives?

The likely answer is that Netanyahu wants them to say this. Shas probably received commitments from Netanyahu, either regarding rabbi appointments or yeshiva student enlistment.

Netanyahu doesn’t want to visit the US appearing to obstruct a deal, as it would be unfavorable for his image with politicians and media. He’s sending his proxies to the media to discuss an imminent deal, aiming to be well-received during his visit. He wants to create an illusion of hope, suggesting “there’s a deal here. The time is ripe.”

However, this is likely not the case. Netanyahu is probably not interested in a deal, as it could lead to a cessation of fighting and the dissolution of his government. The hostages and their families seem to be mere props in this scenario, inconsequential to Netanyahu.

His goal in visiting the USA is to improve his poll numbers through a speech filled with promises before the American House of Representatives. It’s designed to appeal to his supporters, with his appearance carefully groomed for the occasion. However, Netanyahu’s speech likely holds little substance or meaning for Israelis’ lives. It’s primarily for his benefit.

The Americans, however, are preoccupied with President Biden’s potential retirement. Netanyahu dislikes not being the center of attention.

President Biden has been a great friend and supporter of Israel, standing by the country since October 7 and preventing an all-out war with Hezbollah. He’s also been an excellent president domestically, though underappreciated by his party and the American public. His potential retirement due to health concerns is unfortunate. If Kamala Harris becomes the Democratic candidate, her chances of defeating Trump seem slim.

Regarding recent events, the unmanned aerial vehicle that exploded in Tel Aviv appears to be a Houthi response to the neutralization of an arms shipment they received from Iran. This was a significant success for the Houthis, with the aircraft traveling about 1,600 km and exploding near the US embassy. This seems to be a deliberate message to both Israelis and Americans.

An Israeli attack in southern Lebanon reportedly killed a senior Radwan force commander and others. This may lead to a slightly stronger reaction from Hezbollah, but likely below the threshold of all-out war. We might see something like a drone attack on Haifa, maintaining the balance of terror and creating a sense of Israel being surrounded from north, east, and south.

Surprisingly, 9.5 months after the October 7 disaster, Netanyahu remains prime minister with a secure position. About half of the Israeli public supports him and the right-wing that led to the disaster, while the other half has largely lost hope for change and doesn’t take to the streets. Consequently, Israel appears stuck in a state of limbo, potentially heading towards destruction.