OSINT Report: Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Author: Marie Seshat Landry

Publisher: Marie Landry’s Spy Shop, Spymaster Enterprises

Method: CIA-GPT
Log: https://chatgpt.com/share/6706997e-8a7c-8000-aaf3-730def53d71e

OSINT Report: Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Objective:

This report aims to assess Benjamin Netanyahu's influence on the Israel-Palestine

conflict, covering his political stance, actions, and implications for regional stability.
The scope includes his policies, political decisions, military engagements, and
relationships with both international and regional actors from 2020 to the present.
The objective is to provide a comprehensive understanding of his role and its impact
on the Israel-Palestine conflict.

Executive Summary:

Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, has been a central

figure in shaping the Israeli government's approach to the Israel-Palestine conflict.
His tenure is marked by a combination of military action, security-focused policies,
and diplomatic maneuvers. The conflict has evolved over the years, with shifting
alliances, increasing international scrutiny, and the rise of new domestic and regional
challenges. Netanyahu’s policies reflect a hardline stance, favoring security
measures over negotiations, which has escalated tensions between Israel and
Palestine.

In recent years, events such as the 2021 conflict in Gaza, the expansion of Israeli
settlements, and the rise of right-wing coalitions in Israel under Netanyahu’s
leadership have significantly influenced the conflict's trajectory.

Introduction:

Benjamin Netanyahu’s influence on the Israel-Palestine conflict cannot be

overstated. His leadership has seen a mix of diplomacy, such as the Abraham
Accords, and aggressive military policies against Palestinian groups, most notably
Hamas. The goal of this report is to analyze his policies, decision-making, and the
resulting impact on the dynamics between Israel, Palestine, and other regional
actors.

Findings:

1. Netanyahu's Domestic Political Landscape:

● Right-Wing Coalitions: Netanyahu’s political survival has often depended on

forming coalitions with hardline right-wing parties that advocate for expanding
Israeli settlements in the West Bank. This has had a direct impact on the
peace process, as settlement expansion remains a key point of contention.
● Judicial Reforms and Protests: In 2023, Netanyahu's attempt to overhaul
Israel’s judiciary sparked widespread protests across Israel, leading to
significant civil unrest. This domestic instability could undermine his ability to
maintain focus on external threats, including Palestine.
● Corruption Charges: Netanyahu faces corruption trials, which have also
impacted his leadership and the government's focus on national security.
However, his legal troubles have been used by Netanyahu to rally his political
base against perceived threats to Israeli sovereignty.

2. Security and Military Policies:

● Operation Guardian of the Walls (2021): The conflict between Israel and
Hamas in May 2021 escalated into an 11-day military operation, resulting in
significant casualties and destruction in Gaza. Netanyahu framed this as a
necessary defense against Hamas rockets but faced international
condemnation for the high civilian death toll.
● Security over Negotiation: Netanyahu’s approach to the Israel-Palestine
conflict has largely been focused on maintaining security through military
strength, rather than seeking a diplomatic solution. His stance is that
Palestinian authorities and Hamas are unreliable partners for peace.
● Gaza Blockade: Under Netanyahu’s leadership, the blockade of Gaza has
continued, contributing to a humanitarian crisis that has been a rallying point
for Palestinian resistance and global criticism of Israeli policies.

3. Diplomatic Maneuvers:

● Abraham Accords (2020): One of Netanyahu’s most significant diplomatic

achievements was the normalization of relations with several Arab countries,
including the UAE and Bahrain. This agreement, brokered by the United
States, has shifted the regional power dynamics, reducing the focus on
Palestine as an immediate regional issue.
● International Criticism: Despite the success of the Abraham Accords,
Netanyahu’s policies towards Palestine have drawn sharp criticism from
 international bodies like the United Nations and the European Union. The
expansion of settlements and military actions in Gaza have been condemned
as violations of international law.
● Relations with the U.S.: Netanyahu’s relationship with the United States,
particularly during the Trump administration, was strong, with the U.S. backing
controversial decisions such as moving the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem.
However, under the Biden administration, there has been increased pressure
on Israel to de-escalate tensions with Palestine.

4. Impact on the Israel-Palestine Conflict:

● Settlement Expansion: Under Netanyahu, there has been a steady increase in

Israeli settlements in the West Bank. This expansion has made the possibility
of a two-state solution increasingly remote, as the settlements fragment
Palestinian territories.
● Hamas and Gaza: Netanyahu’s tenure has seen repeated escalations with
Hamas, the de facto governing body in Gaza. Israel’s military campaigns
against Gaza have led to cycles of violence and reconstruction, without a
long-term resolution in sight.
● West Bank Tensions: Violence and confrontations between Israeli settlers
and Palestinians in the West Bank have intensified. Netanyahu’s hardline
policies and support for settlements have emboldened settler movements,
further destabilizing the region.

Conclusion:

Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership has significantly shaped the current state of the
Israel-Palestine conflict. His focus on security and military action, combined with a
lack of engagement in peace negotiations, has led to an increasingly volatile
situation. The expansion of Israeli settlements and the continued blockade of Gaza
under his leadership have undermined the prospects for a two-state solution and
fueled ongoing tensions between Israel and Palestine.

His diplomatic successes, particularly the Abraham Accords, have helped reduce
Israel’s regional isolation but have done little to resolve the core issues of the
Israel-Palestine conflict. As Netanyahu continues to face domestic political
challenges, including corruption trials and widespread protests, his ability to maintain
control over the situation may weaken, potentially leading to greater instability in the
region.

Recommendations:
 1. Re-engagement with Peace Talks: Encourage international actors,
particularly the United States and the European Union, to pressure
Netanyahu’s government to re-engage in meaningful peace negotiations with
Palestinian authorities.
2. Address Humanitarian Crisis: International organizations should increase
efforts to address the humanitarian situation in Gaza, potentially through
easing restrictions on aid and facilitating reconstruction efforts.
3. Monitor Regional Alliances: While the Abraham Accords have shifted some
regional alliances in Israel’s favor, it is crucial to monitor how other Arab
nations, especially those not part of the accords, might react to increasing
tensions between Israel and Palestine.
4. Settlements and International Law: Continued settlement expansion may
lead to further international sanctions or diplomatic isolation. Urging
Netanyahu’s government to halt settlement growth could mitigate international
criticism and open the door for renewed dialogue.

Appendices:

● Timeline of Key Events (2020-2024)

● Map of Settlement Expansion in the West Bank
● Data on Casualties from Major Military Operations

This report outlines Benjamin Netanyahu’s pivotal role in the Israel-Palestine conflict
and highlights the complex interplay between military actions, domestic politics, and
international diplomacy. Further monitoring is essential as new developments unfold,
particularly given the potential for both internal and external destabilization.

#####

OSINT Report: Analysis of Benjamin Netanyahu's Language and

Rhetoric on the Israel-Palestine Conflict

Objective:

This section aims to analyze the language and rhetoric used by Benjamin Netanyahu
in his public speeches, interviews, and official statements regarding the
Israel-Palestine conflict. The analysis will focus on identifying key themes, rhetorical
strategies, and shifts in tone that reflect his broader political and security agenda.
This analysis covers statements from 2020 to the present.
Findings:

1. Security-Centric Narrative:

● Language of Defense and Survival: Netanyahu often frames Israel’s actions in

the context of defending its citizens and the Jewish state’s survival. He uses
phrases like “existential threat” and “defending our homeland” to justify
military operations and stringent security measures. By doing so, he aligns
Israel’s national security concerns with historical narratives of Jewish survival,
evoking memories of past persecutions to create a strong emotional appeal.
○ Example: In a speech during the 2021 Gaza conflict, Netanyahu
stated, "Israel will respond forcefully to any attack on our citizens.
Hamas and other terrorist groups are targeting civilians deliberately,
and no nation would tolerate such aggression."
● Use of Terms Like 'Terrorism' and 'Terrorists': Netanyahu consistently
refers to Palestinian militant groups, particularly Hamas, as “terrorists” or
“terrorist organizations,” which delegitimizes them as political actors and
justifies military retaliation. The repetitive use of these terms contributes to a
security-focused discourse that prioritizes military solutions over diplomacy.
● Pre-emptive Defense Rhetoric: Netanyahu often uses language that
suggests Israel must act preemptively to avoid catastrophe. Words like
“pre-emptive strike,” “neutralizing threats,” and “defensive measures” are
common in his speeches when discussing Israeli military actions. This
positions Israel as taking necessary and justified steps rather than engaging
in unnecessary aggression.

2. Delegitimization of Palestinian Leadership:

● Portraying Palestinian Authority (PA) as Weak or Ineffective: Netanyahu often

dismisses the Palestinian Authority, led by Mahmoud Abbas, as weak,
corrupt, or unable to control Palestinian territories. This undercuts the PA's
legitimacy as a partner in peace negotiations. By emphasizing the PA’s
inability to control Hamas in Gaza, he presents the Israeli government as the
only actor capable of maintaining order and security.
○ Example: In a 2020 statement, Netanyahu remarked, “We have no
partner for peace on the Palestinian side. They are divided, corrupt,
and weak. Israel cannot rely on an entity that cannot control its own
territory or prevent terrorism.”
● Hamas as the Primary Enemy: Netanyahu frequently uses polarizing
rhetoric when discussing Hamas, branding it as a “radical Islamist” group that
must be destroyed. This framing serves to paint Hamas not only as an enemy
of Israel but also as a broader regional and global threat linked to Islamic
extremism. This approach aims to rally international support by linking the
Israel-Palestine conflict to the global war on terrorism.
 ○ Example: During the 2021 conflict, he stated, “Hamas is not just
Israel’s enemy—it is an enemy of peace and all civilized nations. Their
agenda is not just against Israel; it is against the very values that the
free world stands for.”

3. Defensive Moral Positioning:

● Israel as a Moral Actor: Netanyahu frequently positions Israel as a moral actor

in an immoral world, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to minimizing civilian
casualties, even when engaging in military operations. He often contrasts
Israel’s military ethics with the actions of Palestinian groups, suggesting that
Israel goes to great lengths to avoid unnecessary harm.
○ Example: During the Gaza conflict, Netanyahu stressed that “no army
in the world acts with as much care as the IDF [Israel Defense Forces]
in avoiding civilian casualties.” This moral framing is a key feature of
Netanyahu's rhetoric, designed to defend Israel from international
criticism regarding civilian deaths in conflict zones.
● Blaming Hamas for Civilian Casualties: In parallel, Netanyahu regularly
accuses Hamas of using civilians as "human shields," placing the blame for
Palestinian civilian casualties squarely on Hamas rather than Israeli military
actions. This argument is designed to mitigate international backlash and
reframe Israel’s actions as morally justified, despite the high civilian toll in
conflicts like those in Gaza.
○ Example: "Hamas deliberately places its military infrastructure in
civilian areas. They are responsible for the deaths of innocent
Palestinians."

4. Peace vs. Security Dichotomy:

● Skepticism Toward Peace Negotiations: While Netanyahu occasionally speaks

of peace, his rhetoric consistently presents security as the non-negotiable
priority. He often casts peace efforts as secondary or conditional upon the
dismantling of “terrorist infrastructures” like Hamas and the PA demonstrating
its ability to control Palestinian factions. By setting conditions that are difficult
to meet, Netanyahu creates a rhetorical framework where peace seems
unattainable under current circumstances.
○ Example: “We seek peace, but not at the expense of our security. Any
agreement must ensure that Israel can defend itself, by itself, against
any threat.”
● Rejection of the Two-State Solution: While Netanyahu has spoken of the
possibility of a two-state solution in the past, his more recent rhetoric is
noticeably more skeptical. His emphasis on the "Jewish state" and security
concerns regarding Palestinian sovereignty suggests a move away from fully
endorsing a two-state solution. This shift is often couched in vague terms like
 "negotiated peace" and "security guarantees," but without a clear commitment
to Palestinian statehood.
○ Example: "We cannot allow a Palestinian state that will become a base
for radical Islam in the heart of Israel."

5. Appeal to International and Historical Legitimacy:

● Use of Historical Claims: Netanyahu frequently invokes historical and religious

claims to justify Israel’s territorial and political positions, particularly regarding
Jerusalem. He frames Israel’s control over territories such as East Jerusalem
as a return to historical Jewish land, often referencing biblical history or the
ancient Jewish presence in these areas. This appeals to both domestic
audiences and international supporters who see Israel as historically entitled
to the land.
○ Example: “Jerusalem has been the capital of the Jewish people for
3,000 years, and it will remain so forever. No one can rewrite history.”
● International Framing of Conflict: Netanyahu often appeals to Western
audiences by framing Israel’s fight against Hamas as part of the broader
global fight against terrorism. By aligning Israel’s struggles with those of
Western nations fighting Islamic extremism, he seeks to reinforce Israel’s
image as a front-line state in a global conflict.
○ Example: In an address to the United Nations in 2020, Netanyahu
said, “The forces of radical Islam are on the march everywhere—from
Yemen to Syria to Iran. Israel is the first line of defense against these
forces.”

Conclusion:

Benjamin Netanyahu’s language and rhetoric regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict

are marked by a security-first narrative, portraying Israel as a victim of terrorism and
a moral actor engaged in necessary defense. His rhetoric frequently delegitimizes
Palestinian leadership, particularly Hamas, while also expressing skepticism about
the feasibility of a peace settlement under current conditions. Netanyahu’s speeches
often appeal to historical claims and international solidarity, positioning Israel as part
of the broader global fight against terrorism.

His rhetoric is highly effective at mobilizing his political base within Israel and
garnering support from international allies, especially in the U.S. and among
pro-Israel advocates worldwide. However, this same rhetoric has contributed to
deepening divisions with Palestinians, alienating international critics, and
undermining efforts toward peace negotiations.

#####
Insights into Benjamin Netanyahu's Language and Rhetoric on the
Israel-Palestine Conflict

● Security-Centric Focus: Netanyahu consistently frames the conflict in terms

of Israel's defense and survival, emphasizing military strength and national
security over diplomacy.
● Use of 'Terrorism' as a Central Theme: Netanyahu frequently refers to
Palestinian groups, particularly Hamas, as "terrorists," reinforcing a narrative
that justifies Israeli military actions as necessary counter-terrorism operations.
● Pre-Emptive Defense: His rhetoric often portrays Israeli actions as
preemptive and necessary to prevent existential threats, framing Israel as
acting in self-defense rather than as an aggressor.
● Delegitimization of Palestinian Leadership: He routinely portrays the
Palestinian Authority as weak, ineffective, or corrupt, and positions Hamas as
a radical Islamist enemy, undermining the legitimacy of both as partners in
peace negotiations.
● Moral Justification for Military Actions: Netanyahu emphasizes Israel's
moral high ground, arguing that the Israeli military goes to great lengths to
avoid civilian casualties, and blames Hamas for putting civilians at risk by
using them as "human shields."
● Conditional Peace Rhetoric: While mentioning peace, Netanyahu
consistently prioritizes security, often setting unrealistic preconditions for
negotiations, thereby making peace seem unlikely under the current
conditions.
● Shift from Two-State Solution: Though previously open to the idea, his
recent rhetoric is more skeptical of a two-state solution, emphasizing Jewish
historical claims to the land and security concerns over Palestinian
sovereignty.
● Historical and Religious Legitimization: Netanyahu frequently invokes
biblical and historical claims to justify Israel’s territorial control, especially in
Jerusalem, appealing to both domestic and international pro-Israel audiences.
● Appeal to Global Fight Against Terrorism: He aligns Israel’s conflict with
the global war on terrorism, framing it as part of the broader struggle against
radical Islam, which resonates with Western allies, particularly the U.S.
● Polarizing Language: Netanyahu’s rhetoric often contributes to deepening
divisions, both domestically and internationally, as his language appeals
strongly to Israeli nationalists and Western allies but alienates Palestinians
and international critics.

This list highlights the strategic patterns and impact of Netanyahu’s rhetoric in
shaping the narrative of the Israel-Palestine conflict.

#####
Key Resources for Understanding Benjamin Netanyahu's Rhetoric on
the Israel-Palestine Conflict:

1. Speeches and Interviews:

○ Official speeches and public statements by Netanyahu, accessible
through:
■ Israeli Government Websites: Prime Minister’s Office
(https://www.gov.il/en/departments/prime_ministers_office)
■ YouTube Channels: The Israeli Prime Minister’s official
YouTube channel for archived speeches and press conferences.
■ United Nations Archives: Speeches delivered by Netanyahu at
the UN General Assembly and Security Council.
2. Academic and Policy Papers:
○ Brookings Institution: Reports on Netanyahu’s political strategies and
the Israel-Palestine conflict.
○ Institute for National Security Studies (INSS): Israeli-based think
tank providing in-depth analysis of Netanyahu’s policies.
○ Carnegie Endowment for International Peace: Articles focusing on
Middle Eastern policy, Netanyahu’s rhetoric, and Israeli-Palestinian
relations.
3. Media Sources:
○ Haaretz: Israeli news outlet providing critical analysis of Netanyahu’s
domestic and foreign policies.
○ The Jerusalem Post: A more right-leaning Israeli newspaper that often
reports favorably on Netanyahu’s rhetoric and policies.
○ BBC and Al Jazeera: International news platforms offering analysis on
Netanyahu's rhetoric from a global perspective.
4. Books:
○ "Netanyahu: The Biography" by Ben Caspit: A detailed biography
that explores Netanyahu’s life, political strategies, and public rhetoric.
○ "The Netanyahu Years" by Anshel Pfeffer: Focuses on Netanyahu’s
rise to power and his influence on Israeli and global politics.
5. Think Tanks and International Organizations:
○ International Crisis Group (ICG): Provides conflict analysis reports on
Israel-Palestine, including insights into Netanyahu’s rhetoric and
strategies.
○ RAND Corporation: Offers research on security issues in Israel and
analyzes leadership rhetoric, including Netanyahu’s.
6. Social Media:
○ Netanyahu’s Twitter and Facebook Accounts: Often used for direct
communication with the public, showcasing his rhetoric in real-time.
○ Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs Twitter: Posts and statements that
highlight official government narratives on the conflict.
These resources offer a comprehensive understanding of Netanyahu's rhetoric and
the broader context of his political strategies regarding the Israel-Palestine conflict.

#####

Additional Resources and Considerations:

1. Netanyahu’s Personal and Political Writings:

○ "A Durable Peace: Israel and its Place Among the Nations" by
Benjamin Netanyahu: A book by Netanyahu himself where he outlines
his worldview, providing direct insight into his thinking on the
Israel-Palestine conflict, Israel’s security, and international relations.
○ Netanyahu’s Op-Eds and Editorials: Articles written by Netanyahu in
international publications like The New York Times and The
Washington Post can give further insight into how he presents Israel’s
position to global audiences.
2. Legal and Diplomatic Documents:
○ UN Resolutions: Key UN Security Council resolutions on
Israel-Palestine, including those relating to settlements, military
operations, and human rights, offer a backdrop to Netanyahu's
international rhetoric.
○ Abraham Accords Agreements: Reading the texts of the
normalization deals Israel signed with UAE, Bahrain, and others will
help contextualize Netanyahu’s diplomatic rhetoric and its impact on
regional dynamics.
3. Think Tank Panels and Interviews:
○ Washington Institute for Near East Policy: Regular panels and
podcasts featuring Israeli, Palestinian, and international experts
analyzing Netanyahu's speeches and policies.
○ Chatham House: Provides expert analysis on Netanyahu’s political
maneuvers and their effect on peace efforts and regional relations.
4. Historical Context and Conflict Studies:
○ "The Iron Wall: Israel and the Arab World" by Avi Shlaim: An
important work that helps place Netanyahu’s rhetoric in the broader
history of Israeli policy toward its Arab neighbors and the Palestinians.
○ "The Israel-Palestine Conflict: One Hundred Years of War" by
James Gelvin: A detailed account of the historical context of the
conflict, crucial for understanding the rhetorical underpinnings in
Netanyahu’s speeches.
5. Documentaries and Interviews:
○ "The Netanyahu Years" (BBC Documentary): Provides an in-depth
look at his time in power, including interviews with key figures that offer
a nuanced understanding of his leadership style and rhetoric.
 ○ "King Bibi" (Documentary): A documentary film focusing on
Netanyahu’s rise to power and his use of media to craft his political
image.
6. Public Opinion and Polling Data:
○ Pew Research Center: Provides data on public opinion in Israel and
Palestine, giving context to how Netanyahu’s rhetoric is received by his
domestic and international audiences.
○ Israeli Democracy Institute: Offers polling and analysis on the Israeli
public’s response to Netanyahu’s rhetoric, especially concerning
security, settlements, and the peace process.
7. Regional Analysis and Arab Media:
○ Al Monitor: Offers a Middle Eastern perspective, analyzing how
Netanyahu’s rhetoric is perceived in Arab countries and how it affects
regional dynamics.
○ Middle East Eye: Provides detailed analysis of regional media
reactions to Netanyahu’s speeches and policies, particularly in the
Arab world.
8. Human Rights and Conflict Monitoring:
○ Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International: Reports on
human rights violations in the context of the Israel-Palestine conflict
provide an external counter-narrative to Netanyahu’s rhetoric on
security and military actions.
○ B'Tselem: An Israeli NGO that offers data and reports on settlement
activities, military operations, and their impacts on Palestinian civilians,
often challenging Netanyahu's narrative.

These additional resources provide more depth into Netanyahu’s rhetoric, his
political strategies, and the broader geopolitical context. They will offer a
well-rounded view of his language and its impact on both domestic and international
fronts.