🎗️Lonny's War Update- October 575, 2023

🎗️Day 575 that 59 of our hostages in Hamas captivity
There is nothing more important than getting them home! NOTHING!

“I’ve never met them,
But I miss them.
I’ve never met them,
but I think of them every second.
I’ve never met them,
but they are my family.
BRING THEM HOME NOW!!!”
We’re waiting for you, all of you.
A deal is the only way to bring
all the hostages home- the murdered for burial and the living for rehabilitation.

#BringThemHomeNow #TurnTheHorrorIntoHope

There is no victory until all of the hostages are home!
‎אין נצחון עד שכל החטופים בבית

Plans Approved That Will Require Additional Reserve Call-Up: IDF to Advance "One Step" in Gaza - But Not a "Large-Scale Maneuver"

Following the discussion with Netanyahu, it was decided that fighting in Gaza will expand again, "unless Hamas agrees at the last moment to a deal and releases the hostages," in the words of an Israeli source.

The cabinet will approve the decision on Sunday. As published in Ynet: the reserve call-up will be expanded, with some combat troops entering deep into Gazan territory while others replace regular brigades.

The discussion with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the continuation of fighting in Gaza concluded last night (Friday) after several hours, during which it was decided to expand IDF operations in the Strip.

An Israeli source said after the discussion that "as long as Hamas does not release our hostages, we will continue to significantly deepen our military operations." According to the source, "This is what will happen, unless Hamas agrees at the last moment to a deal and releases the hostages."

Airstrike in Beit Hanoun, archive (Photo: Bashar Taleb, AFP)

Tomorrow, the cabinet will approve plans to intensify fighting in the Strip, including an expanded reserve call-up, as reported yesterday by Ynet. In recent days, many reserve commanders have informed their troops to prepare for an unplanned mobilization. The reserve forces to be deployed will be divided into two: battalions that will take part in offensive missions deep inside Gazan territory, and brigades that will replace regular forces rotating into Gaza to spearhead the new operation.

The plans will be approved tomorrow by the political-security cabinet, though it is understood this does not constitute a large-scale maneuver or full reoccupation of the Strip—but rather another "step," albeit a significant one.

The military had sought to maintain a goal of just two-and-a-half months of reserve duty per combat soldier in 2025, but this target was breached about three weeks ago, as first reported by Ynet, when two reserve battalions were called up for a second round this year due to exceptional operational demands and multiple missions. Over the weekend, the IDF clarified that "the deployment of reservists will be conducted judiciously, responsibly, and based solely on professional considerations."

The discussion with Netanyahu took place after Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi approved the plans to expand military operations—with the prime minister now personally authorizing them ahead of tomorrow evening's cabinet debate. Israeli officials said yesterday that hostage deal negotiations are nearing exhaustion—and prospects for an agreement appear to be fading. If Hamas continues rejecting a deal, they warn, Israel will escalate its military campaign.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia reported yesterday citing Egyptian sources that ceasefire talks for Gaza have definitively failed. Saudi channel Al Hadath quoted Egyptian sources stating that "attempts to reach a ceasefire have failed." According to these sources, "Israel informed mediators it rejects the temporary ceasefire (likely referring to the proposed five-year pause). Israel has backtracked on clauses agreed in recent days and insists on expanding military operations in Gaza. It wants its forces to remain in Gaza until year's end."

As early as Monday, Israel responded to Hamas through a "political source," rejecting mediators' proposals for a five-year ceasefire that would also return all hostages. "Some Arab states are floating ideas like a five-year war pause," they said. "There is no chance we'll agree to a hudna with Hamas that would only allow it to rearm, recover, and continue its war against Israel with renewed vigor."

However, the Prime Minister's Office stated last night that "reports in Arab media claiming Israel rejected the Egyptian proposal presented to it are baseless. Hamas was and remains the obstacle to a deal." This implies Israel has not formally notified Egypt of rejecting the proposal. In practice—as noted—Israel opposes any long-term or permanent ceasefire unless Hamas disarms.

More reservists to be called up. Archive (Photo: Ziv Koren)

Viki Cohen, mother of kidnapped soldier Nimrod Cohen, addressed reports of Israel rejecting the Egyptian proposal on X: "A black curtain has fallen over me. Mr. Prime Minister, is this true? Has Israel given up on Nimrod and all the hostages?" she wrote. "Hold an immediate press conference and give us answers. Don't leave us in this darkness—another Shabbat of hell without answers. We don't deserve this. Look us in the eyes and give us answers." She added the hashtag: " WhereIsMyChild."

At the conclusion of the International Bible Contest for Jewish Youth two days ago, Netanyahu referenced the Gaza campaign, stating: "We have many objectives. We've brought back 147 living hostages, 196 total, with up to 24 still alive—we want to return all 59. But the war has one supreme goal: victory over our enemies."

According to IDF data, since the current operation in Gaza began about a month ago, approximately 400 terrorists have been eliminated and 1,800 targets struck. Regarding renewed humanitarian aid to Gaza—as revealed by Ynet—the Chief of Staff's position is that distribution should be optimized: not handled directly by IDF soldiers, kept from Hamas, and preventing starvation. The military will act on this issue per political directives but recommends establishing distribution zones operated by international aid groups and foreign civilian companies under security protection. link This enire extension of the operation in Gaza and the huge call up of reserves is for one thing and one thing only, for Netanyahu to keep the war going. He knows very well that more military pressure will do absolutely nothing to get Hamas to change their demands in a hostage deal and we all know that military pressure has killed many of the hostages, either directly from our bombing or by execution by their Hamas terrorists guards who have explicit insructions to kill any and all hostages they are guarding if they think the army is getting close to them.

This war needs to have a name change from Swords of Steel to 'Netanyahu’s Gauntlet of Grief ' or one of the following which would be far more appropriate:

*Bibi’s Bloody Blunder

*Operation: Expendable Lives

*No Deal Left Behind (Except the Hostages)

*The Abandoned & the Bombed

*Echoes of Entebbe (But Worse)

READ THE EXCELLENT OP-ED IN THE WAR AND POLITICS SECTION -

This is the Way to Deal a Severe Blow to Hamas and Achieve the War's Objectives

Red Alerts - Missile, Rocket, Drone (UAV - unmanned aerial vehicles), and Terror Attacks and Death Announcements

11:00pm yesterday-UAV from Yemen shot down
6:25am -Jerusalem areas, Dead Sea areas and Gush Dan ballistic missiles from Yemen- intercepted

Hostage Updates

Hostage Omri Miran’s wife: ‘Victory over our enemies is the return of the hostages’

Omri Miran (center) from Kibbutz Nir Oz, with his wife Lishay (left) and daughter Roni; Omri was taken captive by Hamas terrorists to Gaza on October 7, 2023 (Noa Sharvit/Courtesy)

The wife of hostage Omri Miran calls on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to meet her after he declared this week that “total victory” over Israel’s enemies is a more important war goal than returning the hostages.

“The victory over our enemies is the return of the hostages,” writes Lishay Miran Lavi on X. “As long as our enemies have hostages in their hands, they are defeating us anew every day.”

“There will be no rebirth or rehabilitation, we won’t achieve victory or be able to celebrate independence with a full heart, without every Jewish mother knowing the State of Israel will not abandon its children in enemy captivity,” she adds.

Egypt: Israel rejected the proposal for a temporary ceasefire and the release of hostages

The sources accused Israel: it retreated from the understandings reached in the negotiations for a hostage deal • According to the sources, Israel is interested in remaining in the [Gaza] Strip until the end of the year—and expanding military operations • The mother of the kidnapped soldier Nimrod Cohen appealed to Netanyahu: "This is another Sabbath of hell without answers" • The Prime Minister's Office denied the report: "Hamas was and remains the obstacle to a deal."
Egyptian sources who spoke with the Saudi Al-Arabiya channel today (Friday) accused Israel of no longer standing behind the understandings reached as part of the negotiations for a hostage deal. According to those sources, Israel rejected the Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire, which includes the release of hostages in exchange for a temporary ceasefire in the Strip. Netanyahu's office denied the report: "Baseless reports."
The Egyptian sources stated that Israel wants IDF forces to remain in the Gaza Strip until the end of the year. Additionally, those sources said Israel "insists" on expanding military operations in the Strip.
"The reports in the Arab media that Israel supposedly rejected the Egyptian proposal presented to it are baseless," Netanyahu's office stated hours after the report was published. "Hamas was and remains the obstacle to a deal."
Vicki Cohen, the mother of the kidnapped soldier Nimrod Cohen, addressed Prime Minister Netanyahu on her X account following the report. "Prime Minister, is this true?" she wrote. "Did Israel give up on Nimrod and all the hostages? Hold a press conference immediately and give us answers. Do not leave us in this darkness—another Sabbath of hell without answers. We do not deserve this. Look us in the eyes and give us answers."
Earlier today, a military official clarified that "2025 will be a year of fighting, with an emphasis on Gaza and Iran." The IDF intends to deepen Operation "Strength and Sword," and in doing so, will issue another order to mobilize thousands of reservists. According to the official, the army is currently short about 10,000 soldiers—including 7,000 combat soldiers who would allow for "breathing room."
The military official explained that the number of soldiers in the IDF must grow. "This is the imperative of the hour," he said. At the same time, the IDF is preparing in an attempt to achieve the two primary war objectives: the return of the hostages and the overthrow of Hamas's rule. The military official stated that "the return of the hostages is at the top of the list," despite the voices heard from parts of the political system.
According to that official, despite the military pressure being applied to Hamas, the organization remains "recalcitrant" regarding a hostage deal. Therefore, the IDF is intensifying the fighting and will mobilize additional reserve forces for this purpose. The goal: advancing negotiations through military pressure and defeating Hamas.
Since the start of Operation "Strength and Sword," the IDF has eliminated more than 400 terrorists and attacked thousands of terror targets. Meanwhile, the Chief of Staff's position regarding humanitarian aid remains unchanged: the IDF will allow the distribution of aid but will not distribute it itself. The official added that the army will not allow a situation of starvation in the Strip and will not accept attempts by Hamas to seize control of the aid. However, the official emphasized that the IDF will act in accordance with the directives of the political echelon. Link. As I have repeatedly said, when the voice is to believe Netanyahu/PMO or anyone else, always choose to believe anyone else. Netanyahu is a consummate liar and his office died it for him. Everyone knows that Netanyahu is the deal killer. Of course, Hamas is not innocent of anything, they are barbaric terrorists, but we all know their bottom line and that there will never be any deal without ending the war, something that Netanyahu doesn’t want to happen. I have no doubt that Dermer did Netanyahu’s exact budding to make sure a deal which includes ending the war would never reach fruition.

PM’s office hits out at ‘baseless’ reports that Israel rejected Egyptian ceasefire plan

After reports in Arabic-language media that Israel rejected an Egyptian plan for a temporary ceasefire and hostage release, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office calls them “baseless.”

“Hamas was and remains the obstacle to a ceasefire,” says the Prime Minister’s Office in a statement

Egyptian official: ‘There are no more concessions that Hamas can be forced to make’
Demonstrators lift placards during an anti-government protest calling for action to secure the release of the remaining Israelis held hostage in the Gaza Strip, in front of the Defense Ministry in the coastal city of Tel Aviv on April 26, 2025. (Jack GUEZ / AFP)
An Egyptian official familiar with the negotiations for a hostage-ceasefire deal in Gaza says, “There is nothing new to negotiate, and no further concessions to force Hamas to make.”
Speaking to Lebanon’s Al-Akhbar, a news outlet affiliated with Hezbollah, the unnamed official claims that the real issue is the absence of “an American-Israeli will to end the war.”
The official additionally warned that the Trump administration’s bet that Israel will be able to extract further concessions from Hamas, presumably through military force, is a “mistake.”
The report says that Egypt is backing a proposal that would see all the hostages released at once in exchange for a complete Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and a long-term truce.
However, the outlet says there are also “discussions” for an alternative formula that would see a temporary truce of less than a year, to be implemented in two phases and with American guarantees.
It is unclear who is involved in the talks for the secondary proposal.
According to the report, that plan would include a preliminary Israeli commitment to complete the negotiating process that would eventually lead to the end of the war, with the first phase seeing Hamas handing over more than half of the living hostages and the remains of some of the captives who are dead.
The outlet does not give details on the second phase.
Hamas opposes partial or temporary truce proposals, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected plans that would see an end to the war before the complete dismantling of Hamas as a military and governing power. LINK. This Egyptian official is stating exactly what I have been saying for so long - Netanyahu is the sole obstacle to making a deal to bring the hostages home. He includes the Americans because, as I have also been saying, Trump is the only one to be able to put the necessary pressure on Netanyahu to make the deal for the hostages that includes ending the war.

Gaza and the South

Report: Gaza aid convoy attacked near Malta organized by Hamas, planned to confront IDF forces

A Maltese tugboat helps put out a fire onboard the vessel Conscience, after the "Freedon Flotilla Coalition" alleged that it was hit by a drone strike while trying to deliver humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, near Malta in the Mediterranean Sea, early May 2, 2025. (Government of Malta)

The Gaza “Freedom Flotilla” ship attacked overnight near Malta had planned to confront Israeli forces and was part of a convoy organized by the Hamas terror group, the Saudi news channel Al Arabiya reports, citing a Western security source.

No further details are provided and there is no further confirmation of these claims. It is possible that the intended meaning is that the ship planned to engage with IDF forces as it approached Gaza.

The ship was being used by an organization claiming to be delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, which accused Israel of conducting the drone strikes. Israel hasn’t commented

PA leader Abbas: ‘Hamas-affiliated gangs primarily responsible’ for Gaza aid looting

Hamas operatives seen as aid trucks arrive in Rafah, Gaza Strip, January 21, 2025. (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas issues a statement condemning Israel over its military offensive in the Gaza Strip as well as the enclave’s Hamas rulers for looting humanitarian aid.

The statement posted to the PA’s official Wafa news agency says Abbas “also expressed his categorical rejection and firm condemnation of the looting and theft carried out by criminal gangs targeting warehouses and storage facilities of humanitarian aid designated for the people of Gaza.”

It adds that the PA “held Hamas-affiliated gangs primarily responsible, emphasizing that the Palestinian people will not forgive these disgraceful acts committed in such a critical time, especially in the besieged Strip.”

IDF and Shin Bet: Duvdevan forces eliminate senior terror infrastructure operative in Nablus
Duvdevan forces eliminated terrorist Omar Mustafa Abu Leil, a senior terror infrastructure operative in Nablus, earlier today. This was announced in a joint statement by the IDF and Shin Bet. The statement added that Abu Leil was involved in several shooting attacks against IDF forces in the Nablus sector, which ended without casualties. Additionally, he was involved in facilitating weapons transfers to terror infrastructure in Nablus and Jenin, and was known for providing shelter and assistance to wanted individuals in Nablus. He was shot and eliminated during searches. A pistol and magazines were found in his vehicle, and another militant who was in the house was arrested and transferred for further security forces investigation

US, Israel near agreement on Gaza aid mechanism, Axios reports
The United States, Israel and representatives of a new international foundation are close to an agreement on how to resume the delivery of humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza without it being controlled by Hamas, Axios reports, citing two Israeli officials and one US source.
One State Department official tells the outlet: “We understand that the mechanism will deliver aid to the people who need it in line with our principals: we support the flow of humanitarian aid with safeguards to ensure assistance is not diverted, looted, or misused by terrorist groups such as Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.”
Hamas-run civil defense agency says 11 killed in overnight strike in Khan Younis

A youth draped in a blanket looks on as people look for survivors in the rubble of a building hit in an Israeli strike in the Bureij camp for Palestinian refugees in the central Gaza Strip on May 2, 2025. (Photo by Eyad BABA / AFP)
Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defence agency says that an overnight Israeli strike on the Khan Younis refugee camp killed at least 11 people, including three children.
Civil defence spokesman Mahmud Bassal reported 11 killed “after the bombardment of the Al-Bayram family home in the Khan Yunis camp” in southern Gaza, telling AFP eight of the dead were from the same extended family, including a boy and girl, both one-year-olds, and a month-old baby.
The figures cannot be independently verified.
Contacted by AFP, the Israeli military did not immediately comment on the strike.
Israel has said it seeks to minimize civilian fatalities and stresses that Hamas uses Gaza’s civilians as human shields, fighting from civilian areas including homes, hospitals, schools and mosques.

Northern Israel, Lebanon and Syria

Syria on strike near presidential palace: 'A dangerous escalation'
President al-Sharaa’s office says Israel’s strikes in Syria aim to undermine the country’s unity and 'We will prevent any threat to the country’s security'
The Syrian presidency warned Friday afternoon that the overnight strike near the presidential palace in Damascus was “a dangerous escalation,” according to an official statement.
The strike, carried out in response to attacks on Druze civilians in Syria, was described by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz as “a clear message to the Syrian regime.”

According to Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa (Abu Mohammad al-Julani), Israel’s strikes in Syria aim to undermine the country’s unity. The Syrian statement added that “the authorities will act to prevent any threat to the nation’s security.”

“The Israeli strike near the presidential palace is a dangerous escalation against state institutions and sovereignty,” the presidency said in a statement. “This strike reflects continued efforts to destabilize the country and harm national security and unity. We call on the international community and Arab states to stand with Syria in confronting these attacks. Attacks—whether internal or external—on Syria’s unity will not succeed in weakening the will of the Syrian people.”

Earlier, Netanyahu spoke with Sheikh Mowafaq Tarif, the spiritual leader of Israel’s Druze community. According to the Prime Minister’s Office, “Sheikh Tarif thanked the prime minister for his firm directive to act decisively to defend the Druze in Syria in recent days, including his decision to strike the presidential compound in Damascus. He said the strong actions taken under Netanyahu’s orders delivered a deterrent message to the Syrian regime regarding Israel’s commitment to the Druze community in Syria.”
The Prime Minister’s Office added, “Netanyahu told the sheikh that he expects the Druze community to respect the law in Israel, as it normally does, and not to act in any way against other citizens or security forces. The prime minister said Israel is a state governed by law, and this is a fundamental requirement that cannot be compromised. The sheikh agreed with the prime minister and responded that all Druze leaders condemned recent incidents of violence and lawbreaking from within the community, and that the Druze community will continue to respect the law.”
Following the attacks on Druze civilians in Syria and the wave of protests in northern Israel, the Israeli military carried out a strike in the Damascus area. The IDF Spokesperson clarified that it was a warning strike conducted by the Israeli Air Force—described as a “roof-knocking” strike—on an open area near the presidential palace, rather than on a specific military target.

According to reports from Syria, the Druze villages of Lubin, Haran, and Jarin in the Suwayda province came under attack for hours overnight. Locals said they returned fire, and SyriaTV reported that “local factions thwarted a large-scale assault on the villages, while extremist groups fired shells at them.”
A day earlier, hundreds of Druze citizens in Israel protested on northern highways, primarily on Routes 6, 85, 65, and 90. They blocked major junctions, lit bonfires, and chanted, “We will sacrifice our lives for Suwayda.” At midnight, hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside Netanyahu’s residence in Caesarea. Simultaneously, Druze reservists sent a protest letter to the prime minister and defense minister, stating: “Hundreds of Druze fighters are ready to immediately volunteer and fight alongside our brothers.”
5 Druze apparently hurt in Syria clashes taken by IDF to Israeli hospital

People near a car that was burned during clashes between members of the minority Druze sect and pro-government fighters, in the town of Sahnaya, south of Damascus, Syria, May 1, 2025. (AP Photo/Ghaith Alsayed)
A further five Syrian Druze, who were apparently wounded during sectarian violence in the country, were evacuated by the Israeli military to a hospital overnight, the IDF says.
According to reports from Syria, an Israeli Air Force helicopter landed in the Suwayda area last night and left after several minutes, apparently taking with it the wounded Druze.
They were taken to Ziv Hospital in Safed, where 10 other wounded Syrian Druze had been taken in recent days.
The military says troops are “deployed to southern Syria and prepared to prevent hostile forces from entering the area and Druze villages.”
“The IDF continues to monitor the developments, while maintaining readiness for defense and different scenarios,” the military adds.

West Bank, Jerusalem, Israel and Terror Attacks

IDF escalates West Bank anti-terror operation: Over 100 buildings to be demolished
According to military, approximately 60 buildings are slated for demolition in the Tulkarm refugee camp and about 40 in the nearby Nur Shams

The Israeli military has launched the next phase of its "Iron Wall" operation in the northern West Bank, informing residents of two refugee camps that it intends to demolish around 100 structures, the army and Palestinian media said Friday.
According to the Israel Defense Forces, approximately 60 buildings are slated for demolition in the Tulkarm refugee camp and about 40 in the nearby Nur Shams camp. The two camps have been a focus of ongoing Israeli military activity aimed at dismantling what officials describe as entrenched terror networks.

Footage shared by Palestinians showed Israeli soldiers delivering demolition notices to residents on Thursday night. Additional videos appeared to show chaotic scenes as residents rushed to return to the camps to retrieve belongings ahead of the expected demolitions.
IDF says troops killed head of terror network in Nablus area
The IDF says one of the leaders of a terror network in the Nablus area of the northern West Bank was killed by troops earlier today.
Commandos of the Duvdevan unit operated in the Balata camp, near Nablus, following intelligence provided by the Shin Bet on the whereabouts of Omar Mustafa Abu Lail, the prominent terror operative.
During attempts to arrest Abu Lail, the IDF says he was shot and killed. The military says the soldiers also located a handgun in the operative’s vehicle. A second suspect was detained in the area.
According to the IDF and Shin Bet, Abu Lail, 39, was involved in several shooting attacks on troops in the Nablus area, along with transferring weapons to other operatives in Nablus and Jenin, and providing shelter for wanted Palestinians.
The Palestinian Authority health ministry says it was notified by Israeli authorities of Abu Lail’s death, indicating his body is being held by the IDF.

Politics and the War and General News

Government to discuss option of Oct. 7 state inquiry, days ahead of High Court deadline

The government will on Monday hold a second meeting discussing the potential formation of a state commission of inquiry into the failures leading up to, during and after the October 7, 2023, Hamas invasion and atrocities, according to a formal agenda published by the government secretariat and reported by Hebrew media.

The meeting is being held less than a week before a May 11 deadline set by the High Court of Justice in February, which granted a 90-day extension before it must update the court as to its position on establishing such a committee.

The government informed the court in February that the cabinet had held a meeting on the issue, in accordance with a December ruling by the High Court that ordered the government to hold such a hearing within 60 days, and said that the “overwhelming majority” of ministers were of the opinion that the “time was not ripe” to establish a commission.

The government has fiercely opposed the establishment of a state commission of inquiry into the October 7 catastrophe, originally on the grounds that such an inquiry could not be conducted while Israel was at war, but increasingly due to accusations by several cabinet ministers that such a commission would be biased against the government.

Almost 19 months after the onslaught, the government hasn’t said what sort of inquiry it supports, and hasn’t taken any steps to form one.

State commissions of inquiry have been established in the past to look into other military failures, including the events of the Yom Kippur War in 1973 and the Sabra and Shatila massacre in Lebanon in 1982.

A government commission of inquiry, in which the government appoints the members of the commission, was established to investigate the failures of the 2006 Second Lebanon War, although it was granted some of the powers of the more rigorous and independent state commissions, including the power to subpoena witnesses. link No one has any illusions that this corrupt and failed government will approve a State Commission of Inquiry. They have fought it, especially Netanyahu, tooth and nail. They all know that an official commission's findings would mean the end of many political careers as well as change their legacy in the history books, again especially Netanyahu. He knows that an official commission is very likely to find him responsible and guilty for so many of the things that led up to October 7, including but not limited to the funding of Hamas by Qatar for over a decade that he protected, encouraged and bet upon in order to keep Hamas powerful enough, while he did everything to weaken the Palestinian Authority to prove to the world and the Israeli public that there is no partner for peace. There is a good chance that the commission would either bring him up on criminal charges or recommend that charges be brought against him as well as state that he will be forbidden from ever holding public office again. And to add insult to injury, in his eyes, his legacy would forever change to the PM responsible for the worst attack on the State of Israel and the worst for the Jewish people since the Holocaust. This is a man who was certain that streets, institutions and even towns or cities would be named after him. So, the discussion they will have will only be lip service due to the Supreme Court deadline. They have done everything to prevent the commision, even trying to pass a law forbidding a State Commission. Fortunately, they didn't succeed in this, but they have succeeded in preventing it till now.

This is the Way to Deal a Severe Blow to Hamas and Achieve the War's Objectives

The Egyptian proposal for a ceasefire and hostage release could resolve the contradiction between the war's goals. Its drawback is that Hamas is not eliminated, but it's important to say: it has the potential to severely weaken the terrorist organization through the alternative it offers Gaza's residents. The time has come to abandon illusions and create the best possible reality for Israeli citizens. Tamir Heyman, Analysis - Former Head of Military Intelligence

To end the war, we must ensure the hostages return, Hamas no longer rules the Strip, and Gaza no longer poses a threat. As I've written before, occupying the territory and imposing military rule is the most effective military solution for removing Hamas—yet, from a broader perspective, it's the worst solution for national security. Moreover, as long as resistance to Israel continues in Gaza, the threat of terror and guerrilla warfare will persist—and that's before considering the additional implications of the cost of reoccupying the Strip.

Recent surveys by the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS) show the Israeli public prioritizes hostage return over defeating Hamas. According to military briefings, the goal of resuming fighting serves precisely this purpose: they describe it as a measured, cautious operation that gradually increases pressure on Hamas, aiming to bring it back to negotiations in a position more favorable to Israel. We can hope this indeed happens, leading to another phase of hostage releases. But as long as hostages remain in Gaza and Hamas rules there, we'll return to the grim reality of needing an exit strategy that achieves two contradictory war objectives.

Hamas would be severely weakened if the Egyptian proposal is implemented. A terrorist in the Strip | Photo: From footage uploaded to social media, used under Article 27A of Copyright Law

The Conflicting Interests Between Hamas and Israel—A Seeming Zero-Sum Game

Israel: For the Israeli government, agreeing to end the war is not on the table. Politically, stopping the war risks coalition stability and fuels demands for early elections. Security-wise, the political echelon believes ending the war before Hamas is decisively defeated doesn't solve the problem (though anyone who understands Hamas knows its total military destruction is impossible).

Hamas: For Hamas, the goal is to stop the war and free as many terrorists as possible from prisons, in exchange for international guarantees. Hamas is aware of public criticism in Gaza and its relative weakness, so it needs an achievement. Any form of survival is a victory in its eyes, even if battered. As a resistance organization, Hamas would tactically prefer relinquishing control over the Strip if it ensures survival.

The Egyptian Proposal: Egypt proposes a civilian government replacing Hamas, with ongoing efforts to weaken Hamas afterward. The Egyptians recognize the Muslim Brotherhood will continue existing in Gaza as a social/political entity (as in Egypt)—but must be denied military power.

The Egyptian Proposal Includes the Following Components

(Below is a conceptual outline of key elements, pending negotiation):

1. Cessation of intensified warfare.

2. Release of all living and deceased hostages.

3. International oversight: An international/Arab cabinet will coordinate and oversee Gaza's rehabilitation, monitoring funds and internal security forces operated by Gaza's interim administration.

Hamas would agree to relinquish power in Gaza as a tactical move. Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas external leader | Photo: Hadashot

4. Governing the Gaza Strip: A technocratic management committee will be established—a temporary government, neither the Palestinian Authority nor Hamas.

5. Law and order—Palestinian security forces: Palestinians trained in Jordan by the U.S. military for maintaining order. About 6,000 are already trained and await approval to enter and distribute humanitarian aid without transferring it to Hamas.

6. Humanitarian aid distribution: Civilian contractors or local actors will handle distribution, secured by the aforementioned Palestinian forces.

7. Israeli security responsibility: Israel retains authority to operate within the Strip—effectively a "Area B" model (similar to parts of the West Bank).

Abandoning the illusion of destroying Hamas. IDF operations in Gaza | Photo: Alexi J. Rosenfeld/Getty Images

8. Demilitarization: After the Palestinian Authority returns to Gaza, weapons will be transferred to its control.

9. Cutting Hamas's lifeline—the Philadelphi Corridor and Rafah Crossing: All underground routes from Egypt to Gaza will be sealed, with an international security regime imposed at Rafah.

The Egyptian proposal, deliberately vague in formulation, is only the start of the process. Critical questions remain unresolved:

- What is the "price" per hostage?

- What security coordination mechanism will allow Israel to keep operating in Gaza?

- Who will command Palestinian security forces in Gaza?

- How will they connect to the PA eventually?

- When and under what conditions will the PA regain control?

- What reforms must the PA undergo to return to Gaza?

- How does this integrate with broader normalization plans?

- How is demilitarization enforced?

- How are border crossings controlled?

These and many other questions must be addressed in negotiations.

The Proposal's Key Drawback and Mitigating Factors

The main flaw is that Hamas isn't eradicated and initially retains military capacity—a major challenge, especially for those believing Hamas can now be fully destroyed. But consider these mitigating facts:

1. Hamas has been significantly weakened.

2. The marginal security benefit of reoccupying Gaza is low: Even under occupation, Hamas would hide weapons, blend with civilians/humanitarian shelters, go underground, and resume guerrilla warfare—costing Israeli soldiers' lives over time.

3. "Draining the swamp" remains Israel's responsibility: Through tailored intelligence and operations, the IDF and Shin Bet will keep pursuing Hamas leaders—as done in the West Bank.

4. War can resume after hostage release: Unlike some claims, nothing can stop Israel from restarting fighting. Self-defense rights are inviolable, even against UN Security Council resolutions (Israel already disregards five such resolutions: settlements' legality, Jerusalem's status, Golan annexation, Gaza ceasefire, and nuclear oversight).

Per the Egyptian proposal, the PA would enter the picture and take Gaza's reins. PA Chairman Abu Mazen | Photo: Egyptian Presidency / Handout/Anadolu via Getty Images

5. The Iranian factor has weakened: Pre-war Hamas operated across Lebanon via a coordinated "axis room"—not today's isolated version. Hezbollah's decline further weakens Hamas.

6. Hope for a different future: Gaza's average citizen is now hopeless—no jobs, no education, nothing. Joining Hamas for basic wages is the only option. Any reality offering employment alternatives (as part of reconstruction, not jobs in Israel) would compete with Hamas, weakening its grip.

The Alternatives Are Worse

Even if these facts aren't convincing, the alternatives are worse. Beyond reoccupation's costs and Israel's current volatility (politically, militarily, and societally), even assuming military government succeeds, we'd still face the question: Who takes over afterward?

The Egyptian proposal would offer Gaza residents an alternative. Evacuations from Rafah before Operation "Strength and Sword," late March 2025 | Photo: EYAD BABA/AFP via Getty Images

Without change, we may face today's same questions—but with higher costs: economically, socially, internationally, and in more IDF casualties. As for U.S. support, it's temporary. Military rule is hard to end—likely lasting over four years. A new U.S. president (possibly a Democrat, or an isolationist Republican after Trump) may not back Israel as strongly.

Common Ground Between Hamas and Israel

Hamas is a despicable, stubborn enemy that has adapted to Gaza's new reality. It will likely only release hostages for a solution meeting its demands. The Egyptian proposal addresses both Hamas's and Israel's needs:

- For Hamas: The war ends, it survives.

- For Israel: Hamas doesn't rule Gaza, hostages return, and Israel keeps operating against Hamas below full-war threshold.

Resolving the war's contradictory goals lets each side claim victory. Hamas believes it will survive, regroup, and eventually rule Gaza again. Israel believes it can prevent this through persistent action or renewed war if needed. Who's right? It's a test of determination—and as the stronger side historically, Israel will prevail.

IDF operations in the Strip | Photo: IDF Spokesperson

Conclusion

Instead of clinging to illusions—destroying all Hamas in Gaza, expelling all Palestinians, starving the population into submission, or other unrealistic notions—we should shape a reality serving Israel's interests, leveraging international/Arab consensus around the Egyptian proposal to implement necessary adjustments ensuring Israel's security and war goals.

The Egyptian proposal isn't perfect. It's problematic and incomplete. But it's a good basis for negotiation—and crucially, the only way to reconcile the war's contradictory objectives. Currently, Israel's government has no interest in accepting it, but citizens have the right to refine their demands. We must position this proposal as an exit framework and, through tough U.S.-coordinated talks, ensure war's end enhances Israel's national security.

Tamir Heyman is a retired major general, former head of Military Intelligence and Northern Corps commander. He currently heads the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS). link

The Region and the World

Houthis say US hit Sanaa, neighboring districts in overnight Yemen strikes
The Houthi-run Saba news agency says the United States carried out strikes overnight on the capital Sanaa and the neighboring districts of Bani Hashish and Khab al-Shaaf.
It does not provide further details about the reported strikes.
The US military has hit the Iran-backed Houthis with near-daily strikes since March 15 in an operation dubbed “Rough Rider,” seeking to end the threat they pose to vessels in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
The Houthis have been launching strikes targeting Israel and Western vessels in the Red Sea, in what they describe as solidarity with the Palestinians amid the war sparked by the Hamas terror group’s October 7, 2023, onslaught. link Each time there is a major attack by the US on the Houthis, they react by launching ballistic missiles and/or explosive drones to Israel, and that is precisely what happened this morning at 6:30am. It is quite predictable. The only unknown is the time they will launch. 4:00am used to be their favorite time but they have shaken things up to make it less predictable lately.

US to keep second aircraft carrier in Mideast another week amid battle with Houthis

WASHINGTON — US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has ordered the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier to remain in the Middle East for a second time, keeping it there another week so the US can maintain two carrier strike groups in the region to battle Yemen-based Houthi rebels, according to a US official.

In late March, Hegseth extended the deployment of the Truman and the warships in its group for a month as part of a campaign to increase strikes on the Iran-backed Houthis. The official says Hegseth signed the latest order Thursday and it is expected that the Truman and its strike group warships will head home to Norfolk, Virginia, after the week is up.

Gen. Erik Kurilla, head of US Central Command, requested that the Truman be extended again, according to officials. The San Diego-based USS Carl Vinson aircraft carrier and its strike group arrived in the region a few weeks ago and are operating in the Gulf of Aden.

The Truman, along with two destroyers and a cruiser in its strike group, is in the Red Sea.

Personal Stories

Acronyms and Glossary

COGAT - Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories

ICC - International Criminal Court in the Hague

IJC - International Court of Justice in the Hague

IPS - Israel Prison System

MDA - Magen David Adom - Israel Ambulance Corp

PA - Palestinian Authority - President Mahmud Abbas, aka Abu Mazen

PMO- Prime Minister's Office

UAV - Unmanned Aerial vehicle, Drone. Could be used for surveillance and reconnaissance, or be weaponized with missiles or contain explosives for 'suicide' explosion mission

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