A group of approximately 600 retired Israeli security officials, including former heads of intelligence agencies, have urged US President Donald Trump to press Israel to end the conflict in Gaza immediately. They stated that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel and emphasized Trump’s influence over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in halting the war, releasing hostages, and alleviating suffering. This appeal coincides with reports of Netanyahu considering an expansion of military actions as ceasefire discussions with Hamas falter.
The war in Gaza began after Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza. Since then, more than 60,000 people have died due to Israel’s military actions, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Recently, at least 94 people were reported killed in Gaza, with 24 dying while seeking aid. These reports, difficult to verify due to restricted access, highlight widespread deprivation in Gaza. The ministry reports 180 deaths due to malnutrition, including 93 children. UN-backed agencies warn of a famine scenario unfolding in Gaza.
The intervention by former Israeli officials follows the release of videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages by Hamas and Islamic Jihad militants, which drew condemnation. Netanyahu assured hostage families of continued efforts for their release but reportedly aimed to achieve this through a military defeat of Hamas. Allies of Israel, advocating for a ceasefire, may react negatively to potential escalations. A group supporting hostage families criticized further military action, warning that it leads to doom.
Former leaders such as Tamir Pardo, Ami Ayalon, Ehud Barak, and Moshe Yaalon, part of Commanders for Israel’s Security (CIS), urged an end to the conflict, considering initial objectives met. They called on Trump to stop the Gaza war, similar to past actions in Lebanon. Israel faces growing international isolation amid devastation in Gaza and global outrage, adding pressure on Western leaders for action. It’s uncertain whether Trump will exert any pressure on Netanyahu, despite acknowledging a humanitarian crisis contrary to the Israeli leader’s claims.