US intelligence report: Gaza war could threaten Netanyahu's grip on power
An annual report on national security threats has been published in the United States. This document represents a comprehensive assessment by all agencies within the intelligence community. Although prepared in February, it was declassified on March 11 during Senate hearings.
The primary threats identified include China, Russia, and Iran. Of particular concern is China's support for Russia in its conflict with Ukraine. Beijing receives discounted oil and access to Arctic seas in exchange for this support.
American intelligence views the Israeli government's objective of eradicating Hamas as challenging to accomplish, despite widespread Israeli support for this goal. The United States believes that Palestinian militants, utilizing underground infrastructure, can resist for years.
The report highlights growing distrust in Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership in Israel, a sentiment that predates the conflict.
"We anticipate widespread demonstrations in favor of his resignation and the possibility of new elections. The formation of a more moderate government is feasible," state the report's authors.
Furthermore, the report warns of the global outrage fueled by media coverage of the casualties and devastation in Gaza, exacerbated by violent online campaigns. It suggests that this could destabilize several countries, including Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, and those bordering the Gulf and the Red Sea, particularly with Iranian support.