Earlier this month, 19 former senior Israeli security officials, including past leaders of the Israel Defense Forces, directors of the Mossad, and chiefs of the Shin Bet, urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to conclude the ongoing war in Gaza. They argued that what began as a justified military response nearly two years ago has now become a political maneuver to maintain Netanyahu's coalition government.

The group, known as Commanders for Israel’s Security, appealed to U.S. President Donald Trump for intervention. They stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have accomplished their primary objectives: Hamas has been significantly weakened as a security threat and no longer governs Gaza. The officials emphasized that the focus should now be on securing the return of hostages, which they believe can only be achieved through negotiations that Netanyahu seems unwilling to pursue.

The situation is complicated by the nature of Hamas, which is described as a terrorist organization committed to Israel's destruction. The group could end the conflict by releasing the hostages it took during the October 7, 2023, attacks, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people. Of the 251 hostages taken, only eight have been rescued by the IDF, while three were killed in friendly fire incidents, and 148 were released through ceasefire agreements. Currently, 23 hostages are believed to still be alive.

As the IDF initiates a new military offensive aimed at capturing Gaza City, a ceasefire proposal from Egypt and Qatar remains unresolved. Protests have erupted across Israel, with tens of thousands demanding a deal with Hamas and an end to the conflict. This unrest follows a significant opposition movement that has emerged against Netanyahu's government, which has faced criticism for its handling of judicial reforms perceived as undermining democracy.

Historian Benny Morris has characterized Netanyahu's Likud coalition as the most corrupt among Western nations. He claims that Netanyahu has been systematically eroding Israeli democracy by manipulating the judiciary and appointing individuals with criminal backgrounds to key positions, all while facing his own corruption charges.

The ongoing Gaza war has resulted in tens of thousands of casualties and reports of severe humanitarian crises. The anti-Netanyahu protest movement, known as Brothers and Sisters for Israel, has shifted its focus to humanitarian efforts, forming a leading civilian aid organization. However, the opposition has regained momentum, now supported by leaders from Israel's major banks, insurance companies, and various industries.

Morris notes that these groups also have valid concerns. While it is crucial not to equate the Israeli government with Hamas, Netanyahu's coalition includes extremist elements advocating for the permanent annexation of the West Bank and Gaza, as well as the displacement of Palestinians. The complexities of the situation continue to unfold as the conflict persists.