The generals believe a truce is the best way to secure the release of the roughly 120 Israelis still held captive in Gaza, both dead and alive. They also think a pause in the fighting will give the Israeli army time to recuperate and prepare for a potential larger conflict with Hezbollah on the northern border.
"The [Israeli] military is in full support of a hostage deal and a cease-fire," said Eyal Hulata, who previously served as Israel's national security adviser. "They believe that they can always go back and engage Hamas militarily in the future."
This stance represents a significant shift in the military's thinking, as it has become clear that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is unwilling to articulate a clear post-war plan. The generals fear a prolonged conflict could deplete Israel's military resources.
"They have less munitions, less spare parts, less energy than they did before — so they also think a pause in Gaza gives us more time to prepare in case a bigger war does break out with Hezbollah," Hulata said.
The military's position contrasts with Netanyahu, who has firmly rejected any ceasefire proposal that would allow Hamas to remain in power. The prime minister wants to see the militant group's capabilities fully dismantled before ending the war.
However, the generals believe a truce could also facilitate a deal with Hezbollah, Israel's adversary in the north. They see it as the least worst option, as it would secure hostage releases and provide time to regroup.
The diverging views between the military and political leadership underscore the complex dynamics at play as Israel grapples with the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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