Israel's war on Gaza has entered a dangerous new phase, with over 1,000 Palestinians killed and the number rising. The decision to resume the war has more to do with Israel's domestic politics and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's quest for power than with security interests. The ceasefire deal in January was never intended to bring an end to the war, and the Israeli government's aim of eliminating Hamas is unrealistic. Resuming the war has helped stabilize Netanyahu's governing coalition, but it has come at the cost of Palestinian lives. Without intervention, the war in Gaza could continue indefinitely.