A member of Israel’s War Cabinet, Gadi Eisenkot, expressed skepticism regarding the country’s strategy for releasing hostages held by Hamas. He stressed that only a cease-fire can free the captives, contrasting the stance of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. As the war against Hamas enters its fourth month, disagreements among top Israeli officials have become apparent.
Eisenkot’s remarks come amid growing frustration among hostages’ relatives, who have intensified their protests against the lack of progress in securing their loved ones’ release. Eli Shtivi, the father of Idan, a hostage held in Gaza since October’s raid by Hamas, launched a hunger strike outside Netanyahu’s residence. Frustration over the lack of communication from Gaza was also evident, with many residents struggling to confirm their loved ones’ safety.
Meanwhile, in Gaza, after an eight-day communications blackout, intermittent networks have begun to reappear. The blackout not only affected communication but also hindered the delivery of humanitarian aid and rescue efforts.
The war has had devastating consequences, with nearly 25,000 Palestinian deaths, most of whom were civilians, and about 1,200 people taken hostage. Israel has also blocked the delivery of essential supplies into the Gaza Strip, leading to a humanitarian disaster.
The United States, Israel’s principal ally, has been supportive of the continued campaign but is increasingly calling for the scaling back of the offensive and working towards the establishment of a Palestinian state. Efforts to communicate and find common ground have recently been renewed between President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Eisenkot and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant have expressed their goals of completely crushing Hamas, but critics are questioning the feasibility of these objectives due to the slow pace of the offensive and the increasing international criticism. One of the most controversial aspects of the offensive has been the nearly eight-day communication blackout in Gaza, making it difficult to report on the escalating humanitarian crisis there.
The war has not only had serious implications for the region but also beyond, as it has triggered attacks on international targets and increased tensions, with a substantial impact on global shipping. The volatile nature of the war has sparked debates among Israel’s top officials and revealed deep-rooted divisions within the government.