Later in the week, and presenting the presumed destruction of Iran's nuclear programme as a "window of opportunity" that "must not be missed", Netanyahu suggested only he could secure the "freeing of hostages and defeat of Hamas" after which he would strike wider regional agreements.

Benjamin Netanyahu was quick to bask in the glow of Israel’s military success in Iran. Now he must turn his attention back to Gaza, a war in which the major strategic victories are far harder to find.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli prime minister, has avoided a truce in Gaza. Boosted by his Iran campaign, he can negotiate from strength.