Official statements from the Israeli government or reputable news sources

Israeli Military Chief Advocates Hostage Deal with Hamas, Six-Week Gaza Withdrawal

Jul 22, 2024, 06:03 PM

Israeli military chief of staff Herzi Halevi has stated that a deal with Hamas is essential to achieving the goals of the Gaza war. According to sources, Israel's security establishment is willing to withdraw from Gaza for six weeks in exchange for bringing home hostages. All of Israel’s defense chiefs support a hostage deal that includes a temporary withdrawal from Gaza, emphasizing that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) can exit Gaza for six weeks without allowing Hamas to significantly rebuild. Security leaders agree that Israel can withstand this temporary withdrawal if an agreement is reached. Top defense officials have informed Prime Minister Netanyahu that Israel should prioritize the life of hostages.