**Israeli Ex-Officials Urge Trump to Intervene in Gaza Conflict**

Former Israeli security leaders argue that the continuation of hostilities is counterproductive and advocate for prioritizing hostages' release.

A coalition of approximately 600 retired Israeli security officials, including ex-leaders from intelligence agencies, has issued a formal appeal to former U.S. President Donald Trump urging him to intervene and help end the ongoing war in Gaza. The letter says, "It is our professional judgement that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel," suggesting that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government should prioritize a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

This petition coincides with reports that Netanyahu is considering intensifying military operations in Gaza, following the breakdown of indirect ceasefire discussions with Hamas. The war was initiated after a Hamas assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties, including around 1,200 lives lost and 251 captured hostages. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, Israel's military campaign has led to over 60,000 fatalities in Gaza, with daily reports indicating continued violence and mounting humanitarian distress.

As international journalists face barriers accessing Gaza, claims from local authorities detail severe malnutrition and deprivation affecting the population, with reports indicating that 180 individuals, including 93 children, have died from malnutrition since the conflict began. UN-supported organizations warn that a "worst-case scenario of famine" is currently unfolding.

The letter's urgency has been heightened by the release of disturbing footage showing emaciated Israeli hostages, indicative of the dire conditions under Hamas captivity. While Netanyahu has signaled his commitment to secure the hostages' return, an Israeli official has suggested the government favors a military strategy leading to Hamas's defeat as a means to achieve that goal.

This stance has incited backlash from families of the hostages, as well as leading Israelis, who caution against renewing military offensives. The collective voice, including prominent figures like former Mossad chief Tamir Pardo and ex-Prime Minister Ehud Barak, voices concern that the war has shifted from a justified defensive measure to an actionable humanitarian crisis.

As global opinions tilt toward disfavoring Israel amid ongoing destruction in Gaza, Trump’s response remains uncertain. Although he has traditionally supported Israel, he recently acknowledged the reality of starvation occurring in the region—a stark contrast to Netanyahu's claims denying such conditions exist. The demand for a change in direction by influential former military leaders underscores the complex dynamics faced by the Israeli government and its allies during this turbulent period.