Consider This from NPR Netanyahu's political future and what the 'BibiSitters' want from him
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Oct 26, 2025 
Anshul Pfeffer, Israel correspondent for The Economist and author of 'Bibi, The Turbulent Life and Times of Benjamin Netanyahu,' explores the precarious position of Israel's prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu. He discusses how U.S. officials, dubbed the 'BibiSitters,' are attempting to navigate a fragile Gaza truce amid Netanyahu's waning power within a far-right coalition. Anshul also outlines the complex interplay between Netanyahu's political strategies and U.S. military oversight, emphasizing the challenges he faces in maintaining authority and public support.
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Coalition Dependence Shapes War Decisions
- Netanyahu's political survival depends on staying allied with a far-right coalition that limits his choices and drives policy toward prolonging the war.
- Many Israelis believe he prolonged the conflict for political reasons, eroding public support.
Netanyahu In Office But Losing Real Power
- Benjamin Netanyahu is in office but increasingly lacks real power due to constraints from his far-right coalition and external actors.
- American officials and generals are actively limiting his freedom, shrinking his effective control over policy and military actions.
External Praise Doesn't Equal Political Leverage
- Israelis filter praise from outsiders like Donald Trump and remain aware of Netanyahu's unpopularity despite external commendations.
- U.S. support cushions him publicly but doesn't grant him freedom to act on the ceasefire.
