Former IDF Chief Gadi Eizenkot Criticizes Gaza Ceasefire Talks, Warns Hamas Strengthened

Gadi Eizenkot, former Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces and current chairman of the Yashar party, sharply criticized reports of a potential ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas concerning the second phase of the Gaza conflict. In a statement released on Thursday, Eizenkot emphasized that any agreement must be measured by its success in achieving the war’s objectives, specifically the destruction or dismantling of Hamas’s military and governing power. He declared, "Anything less is a complete failure."

Eizenkot also questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision not to present the agreement to the Israeli public, suggesting this raises serious doubts about Israel’s involvement or consent. He warned that Israel might once again be subjected to an imposed agreement without its participation. His comments come amid U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement of a historic agreement aimed at the total disarmament of Hamas, which Israel has firmly denied discussing during Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump.

Highlighting the current security situation, Eizenkot noted that nearly three years after the October conflict, Hamas has rebuilt its strength with a number of militants comparable to the period before the outbreak of hostilities. He stated that aside from the return of hostages, the war’s goals have not been met despite significant military achievements by the IDF and the heavy costs incurred. Eizenkot concluded with a harsh critique of Israel’s leadership, accusing the government of failure since the October conflict and warning that the security cabinet cannot escape responsibility.

Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue in Gaza, with the 188th Brigade recently completing eight months of activity in southern Gaza, destroying over ten key Hamas underground facilities, including a tunnel used to hold hostages. A senior Israeli official reiterated that Israel demands the full disarmament of Hamas and the complete demilitarization of Gaza as prerequisites for any process, noting that current proposals fall short of these conditions. Israel has submitted its objections to envoy Tony Blair.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts and military actions unfold concurrently, with the future of Gaza’s security and governance still uncertain.