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Netanyahu ignores Gaza violence, throws IDF chief to wolves

The Israeli prime minister's predictable scapegoating of the IDF head is much easier than formulating a coherent policy on Gaza — and more politically profitable, too.
Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant-General Gadi Eizenkot attends a graduation ceremony of new Israeli army officers at a base near Mitzpe Ramon, Israel, June 20, 2018. REUTERS/Amir Cohen - RC112621F780
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On the evening of Oct. 18, running on very little sleep due to a late-night meeting of the security cabinet to discuss Israel’s reaction to the flare-up with Gaza, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hosted the visiting prime minister of the Republic of Vanuatu, Charlot Salwai, and his wife at the official Jerusalem residence. Netanyahu posted a report to Facebook about the auspicious occasion, complete with a photo of himself and his wife Sara alongside his guests.

Vanuatu recognized Jerusalem as Israel’s capital back in the summer of 2017 — even before the United States — but most Israelis have never heard of the tiny Pacific island nation.

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