The question of whether to prioritize the release of captives in Gaza or continue fighting what critics are calling Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s “forever war” is increasingly dividing Israel’s government. Netanyahu’s focus on total victory against Hamas in Gaza has led to criticism since October 2023, with his decision to end a ceasefire widening the cracks within Israeli society. Protests have emerged from military units and the public, with accusations that Netanyahu is manipulating the war for his personal and political interests. The ongoing conflict has also led to a decline in reservists reporting for duty, with growing discontent over the exemption of the ultra-religious Haredi community from military service. Netanyahu’s actions have been supported by far-right allies, but have also led to conflicts with other politicians, such as former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. Sementara Gallant tidak menentang perang secara prinsip – dukungannya aktif untuk Netanyahu akhirnya menyebabkannya bergabung dengan Netanyahu dalam menghadapi surat perintah penangkapan dari Pengadilan Pidana Internasional atas kejahatan perang – prioritasnya terhadap tawanan membuatnya berbeda pendapat dengan perdana menteri.
Pembagian mengenai prioritas telah membuat ketertiban antara pemerintah dan keluarga tawanan semakin terabaikan, dengan Netanyahu umumnya menghindari pertemuan dengan keluarga yang masih memiliki orang tercinta yang ditawan di Gaza, dan politisi sayap kanan keras terlibat dalam pertengkaran dengan mereka selama pertemuan di parlemen.
Pembagian dalam masyarakat Israel bukan hal baru, Profesor Yossi Mekelberg dari Chatham House mengatakan kepada Al Jazeera, “tapi perang dan konflik memperdalamnya”.