In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, Donald Trump reigns supreme. Banners proclaiming “We love Trump” offer effusive thanks to the US president. For the families of the Israeli hostages kidnapped by Hamas in Gaza, and the crowds who supported their struggle over two years, the narrative is clear: with the imminent return of the hostages, Trump delivered what Benjamin Netanyahu wouldn’t.
Or couldn’t.
For months, the accusation against the Israeli prime minister has been consistent. The hostage families and Netanyahu’s political opponents believe he prolonged the war in Gaza for his political survival. The military campaign appeased his far-right coalition partners, who called to expand Israel’s…
