In a striking development, over 550 retired Israeli security officials, including former chiefs of the Mossad, Shin Bet, Israel Police, and the IDF, have called on U.S. President Donald Trump to intervene and help bring an immediate end to the Gaza war.
The open letter, organized under the Commanders for Israel’s Security (CIS) umbrella, argues that Hamas no longer constitutes a strategic threat to Israel—and urges Trump to use his unique standing among Israelis to “press Prime Minister Netanyahu in the right direction: end the war, return the hostages, stop the suffering”.
“Ami Ayalon, former Shin Bet director, summed up their position sharply: ‘At first this war was a just war … but when we achieved all military objectives, this war ceased to be a just war’”.
Similarly, former Mossad chief Tamir Pardo warned that continuing the war “is pushing Israel toward strategic and moral defeat” (newarab.com). Former defense minister Moshe Yaalon and ex-prime minister and IDF chief Ehud Barak were among the signatories, along with 600 other former generals and intelligence figures.
Military objectives met, but why keep fighting?
The letter asserts that the two achievable goals by force—dismantling Hamas’ military structure and governance—have been met, and that continuing the war serves political ends rather than national security (arabnews.com). Instead, they argue, only international negotiations can deliver the return of the remaining 50+ hostages still held in Gaza.
Explaining their appeal to Trump, the signatories noted: “Your credibility with the vast majority of Israelis amplifies your ability to steer [Netanyahu]—you led Israel to peace in Lebanon, now do it in Gaza too”.
A 23-month war, rising dissent, growing humanitarian catastrophe
Nearly 23 months since October 7, 2023, the Gaza war has killed over 60,000 Palestinians and created a famine-like crisis in the territory (scmp.com). Meanwhile, videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages held in Gaza have triggered protests across Tel Aviv, as families and activists demand an immediate ceasefire.
Amid mounting international condemnation, Chief U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Qatari and Egyptian diplomats have brokered short-term truces and hostage exchanges. Yet, Netanyahu’s government continues to oppose a broader ceasefire without Hamas’s complete surrender—an elusive demand that critics say ignores humanitarian realities.
Why ex-officials turned to Trump—what it signals
This public plea to a U.S. president marks a rare fracture in Israel’s traditional national front: senior security voices appealing to a foreign leader to influence their own government. They contend Trump, due to his historical ties and credibility with many Israelis, has a unique ability to pressure for a ceasefire where others have failed.
The letter frames Trump’s past role in brokering Hezbollah-Israel disengagement in the 2000s as precedent—and urges him to exert similar influence now to avert further loss of life.
Risks remain, but the conversation has shifted
Though informal talks have resumed, Netanyahu’s coalition includes far-right ministers still advocating for wider territorial control over Gaza (arabnews.com). Legal analysts warn that the international community may respond with escalating pressure, even as internal dissent grows.
However, the initiative signals a broader shift: a growing recognition among senior Israeli veterans that military escalation has lost coherence, and that only diplomacy and external mediation stand a chance of ending a war now widely seen as counterproductive—both strategically and morally.
About the author
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong Thanks Mahama for Appointment as Fire Service Chief
Daniella Mawusi Ntow Sarpong, the Chief Fire Officer and Director-General of the Ghana National Fire Service, has expressed deep appreciation to John Dramani Mahama for appointing her to lead the service. Speaking in an interview on Dwaso Nsem on Adom FM, Madam Ntow Sarpong also extended her gratitude to Vice President Jane Naana Opoku-Agyemang and the governing National Democratic Congress for the confidence placed in her leadership. “I want to use this opportunity to thank President Mahama, Vice President Prof. Jane Naana, and the entire NDC government for the confidence reposed in me and for honouring me with this leadership role,” she said. Commitment to Serve The Fire Chief pledged to meet the expectations attached to the position, assuring both government and the public of her dedication to the role. “I pledge to fulfil my mandate and discharge my duties […]
No Ghanaian Casualties in Middle East Tensions – Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa
Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has confirmed that no Ghanaian has been killed or injured following the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East, as government steps up efforts to protect its citizens in the region. In a Facebook update on Tuesday, March 3, the Minister revealed that he convened a virtual meeting with Ghana’s Ambassadors and Consuls General across the Middle East to assess the situation and coordinate further consular interventions. “This evening, I convened a virtual meeting with our Ambassadors and Consuls General in the Middle East to assess the latest developments and explore further consular interventions towards the protection of Ghanaians,” he stated. Diplomatic Coordination Across the Region Heads of Mission from Israel, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates, Iran and Turkey participated in the discussions. “I am glad to report that so far no Ghanaian […]
IET-GH Marks World Engineering Day, Highlights Engineers’ Role in Ghana’s Development
The Institution of Engineering and Technology Ghana has joined the global engineering community in marking World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development, observed annually on March 4 and endorsed by UNESCO. In a statement issued to commemorate the day, the Institution highlighted the central role engineers play in Ghana’s development. It noted that engineering remains vital to infrastructure delivery, environmental protection, industrial growth, and technological progress. Engineering at the Heart of National Development According to IET-GH, Ghanaian engineers are providing practical solutions to major national challenges, including climate change, sanitation, energy transition, resilient infrastructure, and sustainable urban development. The Institution reaffirmed its commitment to ethical standards, innovation, and professional excellence, stressing that the country’s long-term growth will depend heavily on the expertise, creativity, and integrity of its engineers. It also encouraged young people to consider careers in engineering, describing the profession […]
Ga Traditional Council Summons KOKA Over Comments About COCOBOD CEO
The Ga Traditional Council has summoned entertainment critic Kwaku Osei Korankye Asiedu, popularly known as KOKA, over comments he allegedly made on social media concerning the Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Cocoa Board, Dr. Randey Abbey. In a formal letter, the Council directed KOKA to appear before Ga chiefs and priests at the Ga Mantse Palace on Thursday, March 5, 2026. The traditional authorities stressed the importance of his presence, urging him to treat the invitation with urgency and seriousness. “Your presence is respectfully requested to address the matter and offer any necessary explanations. Kindly treat this invitation with the seriousness it deserves,” the letter stated. The correspondence was signed by the Secretary of the Court of Priests of Ga, acting on behalf of the Chief Priest of the Ga Traditional Area.
Ghana to Declare 21 Marine Protected Areas Starting at Greater Cape Three Points
Ghana is preparing to declare 21 coastal communities as Marine Protected Areas in a major step toward restoring marine biodiversity and strengthening fisheries management. The first declaration is expected to take place at Greater Cape Three Points in the Western Region. Once designated, fishing activities within the protected zones will be restricted to allow depleted fish stocks to recover. Part of the Global 30×30 Target The move forms part of Ghana’s commitment to the global 30×30 target, which calls for the protection of at least 30 percent of the world’s land and ocean areas by 2030. The goal falls under Target 3 of the Global Biodiversity Framework and has been adopted by more than 190 countries. Despite the widespread commitment, progress remains slow. Since 2022, global reviews show that only about 2.9 percent of the ocean is fully or highly […]
Ismaël Sombié à Bagré : vigne, riz et stocks stratégiques pour renforcer la souveraineté alimentaire
Le ministre d’État chargé de l’Agriculture, le commandant Ismaël Sombié, a effectué le 2 mars 2026 une visite à Bagré, dans la région du Nakambé, pour évaluer l’état d’avancement des aménagements hydro-agricoles et suivre la production de vigne et de cultures maraîchères en pleine campagne de saison sèche. Cap sur la production locale de vin À Bèga, le ministre a visité un vignoble de 4 hectares déjà exploités, avec une extension prévue de 6 hectares supplémentaires. Plus de 17 000 pieds de vigne irrigués ont été mis en terre et commencent à produire leurs premiers fruits. L’objectif est clair : lancer une production locale de vin afin de réduire la forte dépendance du pays aux importations. Selon Prosper Zemba, directeur des productions végétales au ministère, le Burkina Faso consacre environ 100 milliards de F CFA par an à l’importation de […]
Related
Iran conflict: US embassy warns of possible Abuja protests
The United States embassy in Abuja has warned its citizens about the possibility of protests in Nigeria’s capital linked to the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. In a security alert, the embassy said there is a high potential for demonstrations in Abuja on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, noting that previous protests by some groups have led to violent clashes with Nigerian security forces. The embassy advised US citizens in Abuja to remain in their homes on that day, avoid protest areas and large gatherings, and maintain a low profile while monitoring local media for updates. It also urged them to review their personal security plans, keep their phones charged, carry valid identification, and stay alert in public spaces such as markets, malls, and places of worship. The embassy further encouraged citizens to familiarise themselves with emergency exits in […]
Oil Prices Jump Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis
Global oil prices climbed sharply after Iran intensified strikes across the Middle East, raising fears of disruption to energy supplies. Brent crude, the international benchmark, jumped 10% on Monday to briefly exceed $82 per barrel following reports that at least three vessels were attacked near the Strait of Hormuz over the weekend. Natural gas prices also surged by up to 25% amid concerns about supply constraints. Iran warned commercial vessels against passing through the strategic waterway, through which roughly 20% of global oil and gas shipments transit. Shipping activity at the entrance to the strait has slowed dramatically, with analysts cautioning that a prolonged disruption could drive energy prices significantly higher. In the UK, the FTSE 100 opened nearly 1% lower, with airline shares hit by widespread airspace closures across the Middle East. European markets experienced sharper losses: France’s CAC […]
US lawmaker: Christians suffer most from Nigeria’s violence, urges Trump to act
United States lawmaker Riley Moore says Christians have borne the overwhelming brunt of violent attacks in Nigeria for over 20 years and urged President Donald Trump to take decisive action. Moore said insecurity affects people of all faiths but insisted that Christians are disproportionately targeted. He claimed Christians are about five times more likely to be killed than any other religious group and accused Fulani militias and terrorist organisations of repeatedly attacking Christian communities, pastors and priests, and burning schools and churches, often on holy days. He praised Trump’s readiness to defend Christians globally and described the current moment as a once in a generation opportunity to deepen US–Nigeria relations while confronting the crisis. He acknowledged that Nigeria needs support to tackle insecurity but said President Bola Tinubu’s government must show stronger political will. Moore argued that any future bilateral […]
Modi visits Israel as US Iran tensions rise
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in Israel on Wednesday for a two day visit that both governments say will deepen ties, as fears grow over a possible military clash between the United States and Iran. Modi, a Hindu nationalist, was the first Indian prime minister ever to visit Israel in 2017, when he and Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu famously walked barefoot together on a Haifa beach. The two men remain in power nearly nine years later and describe each other as friends. During this visit they are expected to hold talks on artificial intelligence and defence cooperation at a time when Israel is seeking to expand its military exports. An Israeli government official said the trip would pave the way for new partnerships in many sectors, while a foreign ministry official said bilateral relations were close to a significant […]
Islamic leaders reject US call on Sharia, blasphemy laws
Islamic leaders in Nigeria have rejected a recommendation by a United States congressional panel asking the Federal Government to scrap Sharia and blasphemy laws, saying the demand touches on national sovereignty, the constitution and fragile interfaith relations in the country. Those who spoke include an official of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs who asked not to be named, Sheikh Sidi Munir of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Nurudeen Khalid, former Chief Imam of the National Assembly Legislative Quarters Juma’at Mosque in Abuja, and Professor Ishaq Akintola, Executive Director of Muslim Rights Concern. The US panel’s report followed hearings, expert consultations and fact-finding visits to Nigeria and suggested possible sanctions, visa bans and a new security partnership to protect vulnerable communities, while also urging Nigeria to show clear action against religious persecution and insecurity. Responding, the NSCIA official […]
Stop Watching the Hearing Start Demanding the Audit
When United States Congress wants answers, the same pattern plays out. The biggest name gets called in. Cameras switch on. Soundbites travel faster than facts. But the real story rarely sits at the microphone. It sits in the documents.It sits in internal emails.It sits with the staff who drafted policies and carried them out. When a leader refuses to answer directly, it raises a basic question. Why does the investigation stop there? Accountability doesn’t start at the top. It follows the chain. Serious oversight means looking beyond the headline witness. It means calling the deputies.The policy writers.The supervisors who signed off on decisions. Anyone who has watched a U.S. House Committee on Oversight and Accountability hearing knows the pattern. High-profile testimony draws attention. But the details that explain what actually happened are usually buried deeper in the structure. Real investigations […]