IDF chief during Second Lebanon War urges current commanders to challenge gov't Lebanon policy

Retired Lieutenant General Dan Halutz, who led the Israel Defense Forces during the 2006 Second Lebanon War, has called on current senior military commanders to confront the political leadership over its Lebanon policy. Halutz described the ongoing situation as "useless" and argued that Israeli soldiers are being deployed into dangerous situations without clearly defined objectives, likening them to "sitting ducks."

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First of all, I would expect that within his silent inner circle, someone would speak up.

Halutz specifically criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategic approach, suggesting that actions like the capture of Beaufort Ridge were "meaningless without a grand strategy." He accused Netanyahu of seeking mere symbols, referencing a past decision from 44 years prior. The former IDF chief believes the military's top brass must inform the government that current paths are exhausted and that a new solution is urgently needed, as criticism is unlikely to emerge from within Netanyahu's political circle.

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There are people there who I once thought had their own positions and a spine, and today I see only weakness.

Expressing disappointment with Netanyahu's inner circle, Halutz stated he observed "only weakness" in individuals he once believed held strong convictions. He lamented that "their hearts and mouths are not the same," characterizing this disconnect as a defining trait of the country. However, Halutz acknowledged that the military echelon cannot disobey direct government orders, placing the ultimate responsibility on the army's leader to present alternative strategies to the government.

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Their hearts and mouths are not the same. That is what characterizes the country.

Turning to the political landscape, Halutz offered his assessment of the opposition's potential to unseat Netanyahu. He identified Naftali Bennett and Gadi Eisenkot as the most probable contenders, leaning towards Eisenkot based on "heart" but Bennett based on "correct analysis." He was critical of Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz, suggesting Gantz should retire from public life and that Lapid had effectively done so by joining Bennett's party. In a surprising turn, Halutz also commended the Arab parties for their unity and cohesive approach.

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It is the responsibility of the army’s leader to stand before the government and tell it that these paths have been exhausted.