Israel’s Military Intelligence Chief Resigns
Israel’s military intelligence chief has resigned after taking responsibility for failures leading to Hamas’ deadly attacks on October 7, the country’s armed forces said on Monday, as the Jewish state continued to shell the war-battered Gaza Strip overnight.
Resignation of Gen. Aharon Haliva
Gen. Aharon Haliva is the first top Israeli official to step down for failing to prevent the October 7 attacks, which triggered the war in Gaza and brought the government and military under intense scrutiny in Israel.
“The intelligence division under my command did not live up to the task we were entrusted with,” Haliva said in his resignation letter. “I carry that black day with me ever since.”
International Response and Military Pressure
This comes as Israel lashed out at reports that its top ally, the United States, was considering sanctioning the military’s ultra-Orthodox Netzah Yehuda battalion over alleged human rights abuses in the West Bank from before the war.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed outrage at the possibility of sanctions, emphasizing the ongoing fight against terror groups like Hamas.
Netanyahu announced plans to increase military pressure on Hamas in the coming days, vowing to deliver “additional and painful blows” without providing specific details.
Challenges in Gaza
Passover marks 200 days since the hostages were taken during the October 7 attacks, with concerns growing over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Despite international opposition, Israel has continued its offensive in Gaza, targeting Hamas strongholds and causing widespread destruction.
Gaza remains a focal point of the conflict, with ongoing airstrikes and reports of civilian casualties adding to the dire situation.
Humanitarian Concerns and Developments
Reports of civilian casualties, including children, have raised concerns about the impact of Israeli strikes on residential areas in Gaza.
Efforts to release Palestinian detainees and address reports of torture have been underway, highlighting the complex humanitarian issues at stake.
Recent discoveries of bodies in Gaza, along with ongoing military operations, underscore the challenges facing the region and the urgent need for a resolution to the conflict.