Israel’s Military Intelligence Chief Resigns Over Hamas Attack
In a shocking turn of events, Israel’s military intelligence chief, Major General Aharon Haliva, has resigned following the October Hamas militant attack that sparked months of war. Haliva took responsibility for the failures that led to the devastating attack, which resulted in the deaths of 1,170 people in Israel, mostly civilians.
Haliva expressed deep remorse for the “black day” and admitted that the intelligence division under his command did not live up to the task they were entrusted with. This resignation marks the first time a top Israeli official has stepped down in connection to the Hamas attack, bringing intense scrutiny to Israel’s government and military.
For Palestinians in Gaza, the aftermath of the attack continues to bring fresh horror. The territory’s Civil Defence agency reported that health workers had uncovered around 200 bodies over the past three days, buried by Israeli forces at a hospital in Khan Yunis city.
As Israel grapples with the fallout of the attack, families were urged to leave an empty seat at their tables to symbolize the hostages still held in Gaza. The Jewish Passover holiday began with a somber tone, as Israel estimates that 129 captives remain in Gaza, including 34 who are believed to be deceased.
The conflict has taken a heavy toll on both sides, with Israel’s retaliatory offensive resulting in the deaths of at least 34,151 people in Gaza, mostly women and children. The United Nations has described Gaza’s health system as “completely obliterated,” with reports of bodies being recovered from hospitals reduced to ashes by Israeli airstrikes.
As the violence continues to escalate, global opposition mounts over the civilian toll of the conflict, with fears of famine and urgent calls for aid delivery to Gaza. The situation remains dire, with ongoing military and diplomatic efforts to secure the release of hostages and bring an end to the devastating conflict.