Israel’s military leadership is in favor of a cease-fire in Gaza, fearing the conflict could spill over into Lebanon, even if it means keeping Hamas in power for now, according to a report in the New York Times.
According to Israeli military officials cited by the NYT, a ceasefire would be the best way to free the hostages held in Gaza.
Security officials also argued, according to the NYT, that their forces need time to regroup in case a ground war breaks out against Hezbollah in Lebanon.
A truce with Hamas could also make it easier to reach a deal with Hezbollah, officials cited by the Times as saying.
As reported by American media, it is not clear whether Israel’s military leadership expressed these views directly to the Israeli prime minister, but military officials have publicly expressed their disappointment.
Israel’s military leadership wants to initiate a ceasefire in Gaza even if it keeps Hamas in power for now, according to interviews with several current and former security officials. https://t.co/7kMOh6JwKE
-The New York Times (@nytimes) July 2, 2024
Netanyahu: No shortage of weapons, we will continue until we achieve our goals
According to Israeli media, commenting on the NYT report, Benjamin Netanyahu said that “I do not know who these anonymous sources are”, but “I categorically state that this will not happen”.
“We will only end the war after we have achieved all its objectives, including the destruction of Hamas and the release of all our hostages,” he said.
He further noted that the objectives of the political leadership have been transferred to the army, which has all the capabilities to achieve them.
Israel’s prime minister has denied that the army is facing shortages of weapons and personnel.
According to Israeli media, the Israeli military also issued a statement that it is committed to fulfilling all war objectives.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the IDF slam a New York Times report that claimed Israeli generals are willing to accept Hamas rule in Gaza for a ceasefire – I24NEWS https://t.co/u5m5bQw0Kt
-i24NEWS English (@i24NEWS_EN) July 2, 2024