Self destruction: what’s going on with Netanyahu?

It’s unclear what exactly is going on with Netanyahu in recent days, but one thing is certain — it doesn’t appear that he’s thinking rationally.

For Netanyahu, the axiom is simple: “I am essential to Israel’s security.” In his mind, it’s a matter of belief — that without his leadership, Israel faces existential danger.

The problem is, right now, he seems to be doing everything possible to undermine his own rule, by recklessly confronting a court order — controversial as it may be — that prevents him from dismissing Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar.

So, if his continued rule is indeed, as he believes, a matter of national survival — then he is now acting directly against that interest.

Yes, Netanyahu is slowly trying to drag the entire right-wing camp behind him — but it’s not working. The people are tired of endless internal wars. Even within the right, people are no longer willing to “die on the hill” of the judicial reform, however important it may be.

What people want now is some peace of mind — some sanity and calm to end this war, defeat our enemies, and yes — bring the hostages home.

Netanyahu, unfortunately, isn’t moving in that direction — quite the opposite.

But the question is: why is he doing this? If there were some political advantage to it, maybe it would make sense. But right now, he’s antagonizing the heads of the economy, the Histadrut labor federation, the banks, academia — he’s on track to shut down the entire country.

There’s a limit to how much you can sell yourself as a victim of “everyone” while actively attacking people’s livelihoods. And if there’s one thing that really matters to his base — it’s their ability to make a living.

I have to say — Netanyahu is surprising. I didn’t expect him to go all the way like this. In past moments of real danger, he usually folded. But this time, something’s different.

Is it because of the Qatargate investigation? Is it urgent for him to replace the head of the Shin Bet? Is that why he brought Ben Gvir into the government in the first place — to oversee the police?

Or maybe something is cooking with Iran after which all this will look like a farce?

It’s not clear. But at this point, it seems Netanyahu is about to create a very interesting precedent.

We are likely headed into two and a half extremely dramatic weeks — if we get that far.