Iran’s attack on Israel provides Netanyahu with a lifeline, says Jeremy Bowen

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing a political storm as pressure mounts from both international allies and ultranationalist extremists within his own government. After a deadly attack on aid workers in Gaza and a controversial strike on an Iranian diplomatic compound in Damascus, Netanyahu found himself at odds with US President Joe Biden.

Biden, outraged by the attacks and the lack of protection for aid workers and civilians, demanded major concessions from Netanyahu, including flooding Gaza with humanitarian aid and opening more border crossings. However, Netanyahu’s ultranationalist allies oppose these measures, instead advocating for a forceful response to Iran.

As tensions escalate, Iran launched a direct attack on Israel, prompting a coordinated effort by the US and other Western allies to help Israel defend against over 300 drones and missiles. Despite calls for restraint from Biden and other world leaders, Netanyahu’s government is considering retaliatory actions against Iran.

The situation is further complicated by ongoing violence in Gaza, the West Bank, and the border with Hezbollah. Iran has vowed a stronger response if Israel strikes back, raising concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East.

As the crisis deepens, the world watches anxiously to see how Netanyahu navigates the political and military challenges ahead. The risk of a broader war looms large, with the potential for devastating consequences both regionally and globally.