**Israeli Ex-Officials Urge Trump to End Gaza War**
Hundreds of retired Israeli security officials, including former heads of intelligence agencies, have written a letter to US President Donald Trump calling for an immediate end to the war in Gaza. The group, known as Commanders for Israel’s Security (CIS), claims that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel.
The letter, signed by around 600 ex-officials, including former Mossad Chief Tamir Pardo and former Prime Minister Ehud Barak, urges Trump to pressure the Israeli government to stop the war. The officials argue that continuing the conflict will only lead to more suffering for both Israelis and Palestinians.
**Death Toll in Gaza Continues to Rise**
Meanwhile, the Hamas-run Health Ministry has reported 94 deaths in Gaza over the past 24 hours, including dozens killed by Israeli strikes. At least 24 people were killed while seeking medical help, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation on the ground.
The reports of casualties are difficult to verify due to Israel’s restrictions on international journalists entering Gaza. The territory is also experiencing severe famine, with UN-backed agencies warning of a worst-case scenario.
**Israel’s Restrictions on Gaza**
Israel has imposed strict controls on what can enter Gaza, leading to a mass deprivation of essential goods and services. This has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, making it even more challenging for aid organizations to provide assistance.
The restrictions have been widely condemned by international leaders, who have called for an immediate end to the war and greater access to Gaza for humanitarian workers.
**Trump’s Response**
US President Donald Trump has consistently supported his Israeli ally despite acknowledging publicly that “real starvation” is occurring in Gaza. It remains unclear what pressure Trump will exert on Prime Minister Netanyahu to stop the war.
As international opinion continues to shift against Israel, Western leaders are under growing pressure to take action and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
**What’s Next?**
The fate of hostages held by Hamas and the future of peace negotiations between Israelis and Palestinians remain uncertain. The Israeli government has vowed to continue its military campaign until the hostages are released, but many experts believe that this approach will only lead to further bloodshed and suffering.
In the meantime, the world waits with bated breath for a resolution to the crisis, hoping that cooler heads will prevail and a peaceful solution can be found.
