TEL AVIV – Israel’s top military leader, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, has reportedly voiced opposition to expanding the ongoing military campaign in Gaza, further intensifying internal pressure on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
According to senior Israeli officials and leaked defense briefings, Halevi has raised concerns about the risks of broadening the Gaza offensive — including potential regional escalation, increased civilian casualties, and the long-term damage to Israel’s global standing.
This internal disagreement signals a growing divide between Israel’s military leadership and the political cabinet, particularly Netanyahu, who has been pushing for a more aggressive military approach amid mounting political pressure from right-wing coalition partners.
“Strategic decisions must consider not just military success, but regional consequences and international legitimacy,” Halevi reportedly warned in a closed-door security meeting.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have already conducted extensive operations across the Gaza Strip since the October 2023 conflict reignited. While the government claims major Hamas infrastructure has been dismantled, military commanders are said to be urging caution in escalating ground operations into dense urban centers and refugee zones.
Public and Political Backlash Mounts
Netanyahu is already facing growing criticism at home and abroad for the prolonged conflict and its humanitarian impact. Protesters in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem have called for a ceasefire and early elections, blaming the Prime Minister for security and diplomatic failures.
The latest tension between Halevi and Netanyahu could deepen the political crisis. Analysts suggest the rift could undermine unified command within the Israeli defense apparatus and further erode public trust.
So far, Netanyahu’s office has not officially responded to reports of the military chief’s opposition.
