Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks during a joint news conference with United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in Tel Aviv, Israel, in this July 22, 2014, file photo.JERUSALEM – Israel’s prime minister is trying to capitalize on the gruesome video of an American journalist’s beheading by the Islamic State extremist group, saying Hamas is an equally vicious foe as he tries to rally international support in Israel’s war in the Gaza Strip. But the comparisons between Hamas and Islamic State are being met with reservations by Israel’s allies and enemies alike.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu always has prided himself on his ability to attract media attention. Netanyahu, who grew up in the U.S. and speaks fluent English, often uses catchy quips, props or visual aids in public speeches or briefings to journalists.
A day after the Islamic State group, also known as ISIS, posted the video of journalist James Foley’s killing, Netanyahu debuted his latest catchphrase: “Hamas is ISIS. ISIS is Hamas.” He voiced the slogan at a news conference, on Twitter and even at his weekly Cabinet meeting Sunday.
As Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza nears its eighth week, Netanyahu is fighting an uphill battle for international support. While the international community generally supports Israel’s right to defend itself against indiscriminate rocket fire, the world has grown increasingly uncomfortable with the scenes coming out of Gaza.
Hundreds of Israeli airstrikes, along with tank and artillery fire, have killed more than 2,100 people and caused widespread destruction. U.N. and Palestinian officials say most of the dead have been civilians, including some 500 children.