Hundreds of former Israeli officials urge Trump to help end Gaza war

New Delhi, Aug 4: Around 600 retired Israeli security officials, including former chiefs of Mossad, Shin Bet, and senior military leaders, have appealed to former US President Donald Trump to use his influence to press Israel to immediately end its military campaign in Gaza, reports BBC. The signatories, part of the Commanders for Israel’s Security (CIS) group, argue that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat and that the war has exceeded its initial defensive purpose.

Their intervention follows stalled ceasefire negotiations and reports of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu preparing to expand operations in Gaza, reports BBC.

The appeal comes amid worsening humanitarian conditions in the enclave. Since the war began on October 7, 2023. UN agencies have warned that famine is unfolding in real time, while videos released by Hamas and Islamic Jihad showing visibly emaciated Israeli hostages have further intensified public outrage. The letter from the former officials urges Trump to use his standing among Israelis to encourage the Israeli leadership to halt the war, secure the release of hostages, and address the humanitarian crisis.