Outgoing top defense official pans ‘resounding failure’ of Israel’s war strategy

Outgoing senior Defense Ministry official Brig. Gen. (ret.) Dror Shalom criticizes Israel's strategic conduct in the multifront war, citing a 'resounding failure' despite operational military achievements. He notes Hamas remains intact, Hezbollah not disarmed, Iran's nuclear program still exists, and Israel's international standing is at a nadir.

Outgoing senior Defense Ministry official Brig. Gen. (ret.) Dror Shalom launched a broadside against the government's strategic conduct throughout the multifront war that began nearly three years ago. Speaking at an INSS conference on Monday, he said: 'Operationally-militarily, there are extraordinary achievements. But strategically, there's a resounding failure here.' He listed Hamas still on its feet, Hezbollah far from disarming, Iran's nuclear program still existing despite rollback, and Israel's international standing at an unprecedented nadir. Shalom urged diplomatic initiatives, including advancing Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza and pursuing a peace agreement with Lebanon while disarming Hezbollah. He also criticized the government for neglecting relations with Egypt and Jordan, and said the hostages could have been returned earlier and in greater numbers, crediting protesters and the US rather than Israeli leaders. He called for a state commission of inquiry into October 7.