Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant is pushing for a ceasefire deal and the return of evacuees to northern Israel as part of the country’s war goals. Gallant highlighted the success of the Israeli army in defeating Hamas and creating conditions for the return of residents to their homes in border communities.
Negotiations are underway in Doha for a hostage-ceasefire deal, involving representatives from the Mossad, the Israeli army, and Shin Bet. Gallant emphasized the need to secure the return of evacuated residents, with approximately 68,500 Israelis still displaced.
The Prime Minister’s Office expressed support for the goal, noting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s previous statements on the matter. Gallant’s document positions Israel at a strategic crossroads, highlighting the potential for a ceasefire to calm tensions with Hezbollah and prevent a regional war.
Failure to secure a deal, however, could lead to a multi-front conflict and leave hostages in captivity. The document also suggests that a successful agreement could deter Iran from retaliating for recent events.