Israel Announced a New Invasion of Gaza. Is It Bluffing?
New York TimesMAY 20
Director of US-Backed Gaza Aid Initiative Resigns
Above: Palestinians wait in line to receive hot meals distributed by charity organizations, as Israeli attacks continue, in Jabalia Refugee Camp in Gaza City, Gaza on May 26, 2025. Image copyright: Mahmoud Issa/Contributor/Anadolu via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The return to war will not save the hostages. Furthermore, Israel's policy of blocking aid from entering Gaza is creating widespread starvation across the strip. Allowing in a token amount of aid will not significantly improve the humanitarian situation. Indeed, both sides need to make concessions so that the ceasefire can be fully implemented and the hostages are returned.
Pro-Israel narrative
Hamas has, yet again, attempted to bait and switch the United States and Israel into a bad deal. Unlike in the past, Hamas' intransigence will be met with expanded Israeli military operations. The war will only end after Hamas is destroyed and Gaza's population has been relocated.
Pro-Palestine narrative
Just like during the Biden administration, Trump and Witkoff are lying about the war to protect Netanyahu. Israel continues to sabotage a deal so that it can pursue its true goals — destroying Gaza and its people. Netanyahu only seeks to continue Israel's genocide, and the United States is supporting Israel's genocidal policies.