Hidai Zilberman, stated that the decision to withdraw troops was based on the assessment that the military objectives in Gaza had been achieved, including the destruction of Hamas tunnels and the degradation of their rocket capabilities.
The Supreme Court's ruling on Netanyahu's judicial overhaul comes at a crucial time for Israel, as it grapples with both internal political tensions and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The controversial plan to curb the power of the judiciary had sparked widespread protests and accusations of undermining democratic principles.
The law that was overturned by the Supreme Court aimed to prevent judges from overruling government decisions by declaring them unreasonable. This move was seen by many as an attempt by Netanyahu's far-right coalition government to consolidate power and limit the checks and balances within the system.
The opposition to Netanyahu's government argued that these measures were part of a deliberate erosion of democratic values, especially as the prime minister faced multiple legal battles over alleged corruption. Critics accused Netanyahu of prioritizing his personal interests over the well-being of the country.
The war with Hamas, which was ignited by the group's terror attack on southern Israel, further exacerbated the political tensions within the country. While the conflict temporarily united the nation, it also highlighted the deep divisions that had been fueled by the formation of the far-right government.
Just hours before the Supreme Court's ruling, Israel's military confirmed plans for a significant drawdown of troops in the Gaza Strip. This decision came as Netanyahu vowed to continue the military offensive until Hamas is defeated and the remaining hostages are freed.
The international community has increasingly called on Israel to scale back its offensive in Gaza, as the death toll among Palestinians continues to rise. Health officials in the Hamas-run enclave reported that nearly 22,000 Palestinians have been killed as a result of the conflict.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who has been urging Israel to prioritize the protection of Palestinian civilians, is expected to visit the region in the coming week. His visit comes as international pressure mounts for a ceasefire and a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The announcement by the Israeli army to withdraw several thousand troops from Gaza in the coming weeks is seen as a step towards deescalation. Some troops will return to bases for further training or rest, while older reservists will be allowed to go home.
The war with Hamas has not only taken a toll on the security situation but also on the economy. Many reservists have been unable to go to their jobs, run their businesses, or continue their studies, leading to economic hardships for individuals and the country as a whole.
Overall, the Supreme Court's ruling on Netanyahu's judicial overhaul and the decision to withdraw troops from Gaza mark significant developments in Israel's political and security landscape. The country faces the challenge of reconciling internal divisions while navigating the complexities of the conflict with Hamas and international pressure for a peaceful resolution.
themes: Military War Israel Hamas
