In a dramatic and unprecedented move, more than 600 retired Israeli security officials — including former chiefs of the Mossad, Shin Bet, and senior IDF commanders — have publicly called on former U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene in Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza.
In an open letter released to the media on Monday, the signatories urged Trump to leverage his influence over Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to bring the conflict to an end.
They argued that Hamas no longer poses a significant strategic threat to Israel and continuing the war would only deepen regional instability and increase civilian suffering.
“It is our professional judgement that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel,” the letter stated. “We urge you, President Trump, to help steer Prime Minister Netanyahu towards a responsible and immediate resolution.”
The former officials emphasized that their stance is informed by decades of experience in Israeli intelligence and defense. Many of them have held top positions in the military, security, and intelligence services, lending significant weight to the letter.
The intervention underscores growing internal pressure on Netanyahu’s government as the Gaza war stretches on with mounting casualties and international criticism.
While it is unusual for retired Israeli officials to appeal directly to foreign leaders — especially a former U.S. president — their decision to reach out to Trump reflects the belief that he maintains considerable sway over Netanyahu.
As of now, there has been no official response from either Netanyahu’s office or Trump’s team.
