Former Israeli military and intelligence leaders have called for an immediate end to the war in Gaza, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu signaled possible escalation and convened his Security Cabinet to determine the next phase of military operations.
The appeal came in a video posted online by former heads of Israel’s Shin Bet internal security agency, the Mossad intelligence service, and the military. They accused far-right members of the government of prolonging the war and warned that continuing the conflict is damaging Israel’s security and global standing.
Dozens dead as Palestinians in Gaza risk their lives for aid
“This is leading the State of Israel to the loss of its security and its identity,” said Ami Ayalon, a former Shin Bet chief. His successor, Yoram Cohen, called Netanyahu’s war goals “a fantasy,” saying the idea of defeating every militant and rescuing hostages simultaneously was “impossible.”
Netanyahu Pushes for Further Military Action
Despite internal dissent, Netanyahu remains committed to his stated war objectives: defeating Hamas, securing the release of all hostages, and preventing future threats from Gaza. Israeli media report tensions between Netanyahu and army chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, who is reportedly resisting calls to capture the remaining parts of Gaza, fearing humanitarian fallout and international isolation.
Reports suggest Zamir may step down or be removed if he refuses to support a full takeover.
Israeli forces kill over 20 aid-seekers in Gaza amid mounting hunger crisis
Mounting Civilian Deaths and Aid Challenges
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to worsen. Palestinian health officials reported more deaths Tuesday near food distribution points, where desperate residents scramble for aid. Hundreds of civilians have reportedly been killed since May while trying to access humanitarian assistance.
The Israeli military says it has only used warning shots and disputes the reported death tolls.
Israel Introduces Aid Plan via Local Merchants
To ease the crisis, Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) announced a new system allowing selected Gaza merchants to distribute essential goods. The initiative aims to reduce dependence on international organizations, with items like baby food, hygiene supplies, and fresh produce being sold through controlled bank transfers.
Aid Access Marked by Chaos and Bloodshed
Despite efforts to improve aid flow, the reality on the ground remains chaotic. Crowds gathered near aid trucks entering Gaza through the southern Morag corridor on Monday, with many people climbing onto moving vehicles to grab whatever they could.
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“This aid is stained with humiliation and blood,” said Yusif Abu Mor, a resident of Khan Younis, who described scenes of men carrying flour alongside wounded or dead bodies.
Another resident, Mohammed Qassas, said, “If we fight, we get the food. If we don’t fight, we don’t get anything.”
Famine Risk Grows
Israel’s military blockade and ongoing offensive have severely limited aid delivery, pushing parts of Gaza toward famine nearly 22 months into the conflict. Aid groups say the recent Israeli measures fall short, while airdrops by several countries remain insufficient and risky.
Although families of Israeli hostages also fear starvation could affect their loved ones, they place the blame on Hamas for obstructing humanitarian efforts.
Source: Agency