Astana: Israeli newspaper Haaretz has accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of extending conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon to advance his political and personal interests.

According to Anadolu Agency, Haaretz published an editorial expressing suspicion that the ongoing violence benefits Netanyahu's political agenda. The newspaper argued that the wars in Gaza and Lebanon are being reignited after the Israeli Prime Minister's unsuccessful attempts to confront Iran, which were halted by former US President Donald Trump.

The editorial highlighted the situation in southern Lebanon, where the Israeli military has declared a combat zone, ordering mass evacuations and planning increased operations against Hezbollah. The newspaper noted that recent events, including assassinations in Beirut, indicate a severe escalation intended to provoke a full-scale war with Hezbollah.

Haaretz also criticized Netanyahu's directive to expand Israeli control in Gaza from 60% to 70% under the pretense of unobserved ceasefires in both Lebanon and Gaza. The newspaper suggested that Israel's actions in Lebanon are portrayed as defensive measures against Hezbollah drone attacks, while in Gaza, the aim is to challenge Hamas' authority.

The editorial described the Lebanese conflict as "futile and pointless," questioning its objectives and urging an immediate end to the violence to prevent further unnecessary casualties. Haaretz called for scaling back military operations, troop withdrawals from Lebanon, and direct negotiations with the Lebanese government.

Warnings were also issued against renewed escalation in Gaza. Haaretz argued that prolonged conflict, marked by widespread destruction, will not achieve Israel's goals. Instead, the newspaper urged backing for Trump's 'Board of Peace' initiative to prevent further military escalation.

The editorial concluded by stating that a war with no clear objectives, other than inflicting casualties, is unsustainable and should be ended swiftly to minimize damage.

A ceasefire agreement in Gaza, effective since October 10, 2025, follows a two-year conflict that resulted in over 72,000 Palestinian deaths and more than 172,000 injuries, as reported by Palestinian authorities. Despite the ceasefire, Israeli violations have led to over 900 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza's Government Media Office.