Israeli Opposition Leader: This War Is a Catastrophe, Not a Victory
The strategy for liberating the hostages has failed. Military pressure has not succeeded—neither has the prevention of food and medicine, nor the endless negotiations over partial deals
Palestine, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid issued a stark warning to the Israeli public, denouncing the current government’s handling of the Gaza war as a “failure and a catastrophe” that lacks any vision for the return of Israeli hostages.
In a statement on Monday, Lapid said his warning was based on intelligence and operational information available to him due to his position. He asserted that the government has failed in the war, and what is happening "is not a victory but a catastrophe."
Calls for Hostage Deal and Withdrawal from Gaza
Lapid emphasized that the solution lies in a comprehensive hostage deal and a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
He proposed that the Israeli army should reposition itself around the perimeter of the Gaza Strip and continue its mission against the resistance from outside, while Gaza should be administered by a coalition of moderate Arab states led by Egypt.
Government Has No Exit Strategy
Lapid stressed that the Israeli government is the only party refusing to discuss how to end the war. “It has presented no plan, no political vision, and refuses to conscript the Haredim,” he said.
He added: “The strategy for liberating the hostages has failed. Military pressure has not succeeded—neither has the prevention of food and medicine, nor the endless negotiations over partial deals. What will bring them back is ending the war.”
He noted that the humanitarian aid management system in Gaza has collapsed and that Israel must ensure no famine occurs, “so as not to help Hamas in its propaganda campaign.”
Political and Media Breakdown Inside Israel
Lapid described the political and media landscape inside Israel as undergoing complete collapse. He warned that without radical change, economic and legal sanctions would be imposed, every citizen would pay the price, and “anyone traveling abroad would fear arrest or assault.”
He added, “Those fighting in Gaza today will fear leaving Israel tomorrow.”
Lapid strongly criticized ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben Gvir for their talk of establishing military rule and waging an eternal war, calling such proposals “a major disaster.”
Lapid concluded by stating, “We must end the war in exchange for a comprehensive ceasefire.
There will be a comprehensive deal for all hostages. Israel will win twice: we will retrieve our hostages, and we will end a war that no longer leads anywhere.” (PW)
Source: Palinfo