Top generals in the IDF are reportedly in favor of negotiating a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, even if Hamas remains in power for the time being. They believe that a truce is the best opportunity to secure the release of 120 Israeli hostages held in Gaza, both dead and alive, The New York Times reports, citing six former and current senior security officials who spoke on condition of anonymity.
These generals argue that a ceasefire with Hamas would also facilitate reaching a ceasefire agreement with Hezbollah. Although The New York Times did not disclose the names of its sources, it referenced the so-called "IDF General Staff Forum," which includes some 30 senior generals, including the military chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, the commanders of the army, air force and navy, and the head of military intelligence.
The New York Times highlights a growing rift between Israel's military and political leadership. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes a ceasefire that would allow Hamas to survive the war.
Responding to the report, Netanyahu stated, "I do not know who these unnamed sources are, but I am here to make it unequivocally clear: this will not happen. We will conclude the war only after achieving all its objectives, including the elimination of Hamas and the release of all our hostages. These objectives have been set for the IDF by Israel's political leadership, and the IDF has all the means to achieve them."
Netanyahu emphasized the inadmissibility of yielding to "defeatist sentiments," whether influenced by The New York Times or any other entity.
