A widening rift between Israel’s political and military leadership has come to light, with the military spokesman questioning Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stated goal of destroying Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
After nine months of conflict, resulting in over 37,000 Palestinian casualties, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari expressed skepticism about the feasibility of eliminating Hamas.
Speaking to Israel’s Channel 13, Hagari described the idea of eradicating Hamas as unrealistic. “Hamas is an idea, Hamas is a party. It’s rooted in the hearts of the people – whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong,” he stated.
Netanyahu’s office reacted strongly to Hagari’s remarks, emphasizing that the security cabinet has defined the destruction of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities as a war goal.
The military issued a clarification, asserting its commitment to achieving the war’s objectives as outlined by the cabinet. It stated that Hagari’s comments referred to Hamas as an ideology, not a military target.
Israeli political analyst Akiva Eldar noted that Hagari’s comments undermine Netanyahu’s doctrine that Hamas can be defeated “once and for all.
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“Eldar highlighted the escalating tension between the government and the military, indicating a significant divergence in perspectives on the war’s objectives and strategies.
Recent developments also show signs of internal discontent within Netanyahu’s coalition and military leadership. Former military chief Benny Gantz withdrew from Netanyahu’s war cabinet, expressing frustration over the conduct of the war.
Additionally, Netanyahu disagreed with the army’s decision to declare a “tactical pause” in Rafah to facilitate humanitarian aid, underscoring the ongoing discord between the government and military forces.
