Netanyahu Pushes Back Against Mounting Criticism Amid Gaza Tensions. A Palestinian man carries the body of his daughter, who was killed during Israeli shelling, outside Al-Shifa hospital in Gaza City (PHOTO: AFP) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued a stern response to increasing criticism from the United States and the Europeans, following accusations that his government has veered off course in its handling of the Gaza conflict. Tensions between Israel and the US have escalated, raising concerns about the future of diplomatic relations between the two allies. The latest friction stems from a series of clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinian protesters in Gaza, which have resulted in civilian casualties and widespread destruction. The US administration, along with several international bodies, has condemned Israel's response as disproportionate and indiscriminate, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and a return to negotiations. I