Benjamin Netanyahu

Syria's foreign minister met Israeli officials in London on 17 September, sparking speculation that a deal is in the offing. But even if one is reached, it risks being more symbolic than substantive.

His emerging strategy shows a willingness to gamble on high-profile assassinations, even at the expense of diplomatic blowback, regional stability, and fragile negotiations

The gulf between the political and military establishments is widening. Politicians speak of a delayed victory, but military leaders warn of an inescapable quagmire.

Israel's war aims go beyond the defeat of Hamas to the collective punishment of two million Palestinians. It is losing friends fast, while Gazans lose far more than that.

By hyping up the threat of a nuclear Iran, Netanyahu knows he can scare Israeli society into backing military action—a tactic he has perfected throughout his lengthy political career

Israel sees an opportunity to eliminate a strategic regional rival, but the future course of events primarily hinges on what Trump decides to do next

The Israeli strikes aren't about facilities or centrifuges, but regime change

Netanyahu has a lethal addiction to crises 

Given Trump's agnostic approach to foreign policy and desire to seal deals, the Israeli premier may have to show more flexibility on key regional issues

In the past year, the prime minister has cast aside his army chief, defence minister, intelligence head, and attorney-general, while subordinating the judiciary to his office and crushing dissent