A survey published by Channel 12 revealed that 54 percent of those interviewed said that the military campaign was extended for political reasons, 34 percent for operational reasons and 12 percent did not answer.

Sixty-eight percent described as bad the handling of the conflict by the head of government, who faces harsh criticism from broad sectors of society, and a low 28 percent gave him a good rating.

Netanyahu faces numerous accusations of prolonging the war to save his political future.

Sixty-eight percent of respondents said Israel is far from a complete victory as promised by the prime minister, 23 percent consider it close and nine percent did not answer.

A recent poll published by the Broadcasting Corporation revealed that 57 percent of Israelis believe that Netanyahu divides the country and causes internal discord.

The research reflected that 54 percent believe that the government abandoned Israeli prisoners held by Palestinian militias in the Gaza Strip waiting for an exchange.

Another survey by Channel 12 indicated that 66 percent of Israelis advocate the retirement of the Likud party leader, who heads the most right-wing Executive in the history of this Levantine nation.

A mere 27 percent want the politician to compete in the next elections, according to the survey.

mh/abo/mem/rob