Hundreds of former high-ranking Israeli security and intelligence officials, including past leaders of Mossad, Shin Bet, and the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), are collectively demanding an immediate cessation of the Gaza war. Their urgent call asserts that the conflict has become "unjust, immoral and futile," driven by what they describe as "messianic and extremist goals" that ultimately threaten "the loss of Israel's security and freedom." This significant dissent from within Israel's security establishment was highlighted by Rep. Jamie Raskin, who stated in a recent tweet, "> Former Mossad, Shin Bet and IDF leaders join most of the world in demanding an immediate end to the Gaza war, saying it’s now an unjust, immoral and futile war of destruction guided by 'messianic and extremist goals' and threatening ‘the loss of Israel's security and freedom.’ It must end now."
This influential group, largely organized under the "Commanders for Israel's Security" (CIS), includes prominent figures such as former Prime Minister and IDF Chief of Staff Ehud Barak, former Mossad Director Tamir Pardo, and former Shin Bet Chief Ami Ayalon. Their unified stance, often expressed through public letters and videos, underscores a growing conviction that the war's continuation no longer serves Israel's strategic interests. They argue that military objectives, particularly the complete eradication of Hamas, are proving unattainable through current means.
The former chiefs contend that the conflict has devolved into a "war of destruction" that is counterproductive to Israel's long-term security. They point to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the failure to secure the release of all hostages through military pressure as evidence of the war's futility. The security veterans emphasize that the ongoing hostilities are isolating Israel internationally and exacerbating regional instability.
Their sharp criticism regarding "messianic and extremist goals" implicitly targets elements within the current Israeli government, suggesting that ideological aims are overriding pragmatic security considerations. This perspective warns that such a direction could lead to prolonged occupation without a viable post-war plan, further endangering Israel's democratic values and future. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, however, has consistently reiterated his commitment to achieving war objectives, including defeating Hamas and ensuring Israel's enduring security.
The security officials have also appealed to international leaders, including former US President Donald Trump, to exert pressure for an immediate ceasefire and a comprehensive hostage deal. Their collective voice represents a significant internal challenge to the Israeli government's war strategy, highlighting deep concerns over the conflict's direction and its potential long-term consequences for the nation.