US airstrikes on Iran boost Netanyahu's political standing

On Wednesday, United States forces launched additional airstrikes across Iran’s southern coast after President Donald Trump declared the temporary cease‑fire with Tehran over. CENTCOM said the attacks were intended to further reduce Iran’s capacity to threaten freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. Explosions were reported in Jask, Bushehr, Bandar Abbas, Sirik and on Abu Musa island, and power cuts were reported in Bushehr. Iran mobilised air defences, warned of a strong response and hinted at possibly closing the strait.

Analysts say the escalation also benefits Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who can portray the conflict as a national‑security imperative and use the state of exception to bolster his domestic political position amid economic woes and corruption investigations. Professor Fernando Brancoli noted, “If there is anyone celebrating this moment, it is Netanyahu, as he uses the state of exception to avoid political consequences.” Critics warn the war‑like environment consolidates his grip on power.