Netanyahu leaves, but Hamas remains - US intelligence

TRT reports that the new US intelligence assessment published on Monday casts doubt on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ability to hold power.

The annual threat assessment for 2024 highlights concerns about Israel's vision of ending the war and says Netanyahu's centre-right coalition "may be under threat".

"The level of public distrust of Netanyahu's ability to govern before the war has deepened and widened. Now we are waiting for mass protests demanding his resignation and new elections. Another moderate government may emerge."

The report also predicted that Israel would struggle to achieve its goal of "destroying Hamas," noting that "Israel is likely to face continued armed resistance from Hamas for many years. "

In connection with Israel's planned military operations in Rafah, south of Gaza, the tension between US President Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has increased in recent days. However , this intelligence report was prepared long before the recent tensions.

In the annual report, the intelligence agencies concluded that "Israel faces increasing international pressure due to the dire humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip." The report also noted that the war in Gaza would "challenge America's partners in the Middle East" after growing public resentment against Israel and the United States due to "death and destruction ".

CIA Director William Barnes said that "a hostage exchange deal is the most practical way to end the war in Gaza, at least temporarily."