Veterans of Past Conflicts Urge Gaza Ceasefire

Former Israeli Security Chiefs Condemn Gaza War, Warn of “Defeat” and Potential for Genocide

Gaza – August 5, 2025 – A stunning and unprecedented rebuke of the current Israeli government’s policies in Gaza has come from a collective of former heads of Mossad, Shin Bet, and Military Intelligence. The group, comprised of some of Israel’s most experienced security figures, are publicly warning that the war has become strategically counterproductive, risks escalating into a wider regional conflict, and is potentially leading Israel towards “defeat.”

The escalating criticism comes amidst growing international pressure, with several countries poised to formally recognize the State of Palestine during a special UN session in September. This move signals a notable shift in global opinion regarding the conflict.

In a video released this week, former Mossad Director Tamir Pardo stated Israel is “on the edge of the cliff of defeat” in Gaza. He and other former security officials argue that while the initial military objectives have been achieved, continuing the operation is now actively damaging Israel’s long-term security and identity.

“This war began as a fair war, a defensive war,” explained Ami Aylon, former head of Shin Bet, as quoted by the Times of Israel. “But as we reached all our military objectives… it is indeed no longer a fair war. It is indeed leading the state of israel to the loss of its safety and identity.”

The group’s concerns extend beyond strategic failures. Recent footage of hostages Rom Braslavski and Evyatar David, appearing severely malnourished and detailing harrowing conditions, has further fueled the calls for a ceasefire. Braslavski pleaded for food, stating he is “about to die,” while David described being forced to dig his own grave.Former officials are also questioning the feasibility of achieving stated goals. Yoram Cohen, a former Shin bet chief, dismissed the notion that Israel can simultaneously eliminate all Hamas militants, secure all weapons caches, and secure the release of the remaining hostages. Amos Malka, former head of military Intelligence, asserted that the prospect for a successful conclusion to the war passed “well over a year ago.”

The group has even directly appealed to former U.S. President Donald Trump,urging him to intervene and push for an end to the conflict in both Gaza and Lebanon.

Evergreen Insights: The Shifting Sands of Israeli Security Doctrine

This unprecedented public dissent from within the Israeli security establishment represents a critical juncture in the nation’s history. For decades, Israel’s security policy has been largely defined by a proactive, often aggressive, approach to perceived threats. This latest development suggests a growing internal debate about the efficacy of that doctrine.

Several factors are likely contributing to this shift:

The Evolving Nature of Conflict: Traditional military victories are proving less decisive in the face of asymmetric warfare and the rise of non-state actors like Hamas.
The Cost of Occupation: The prolonged occupation of Palestinian territories continues to fuel resentment and instability, creating a cycle of violence.
International Isolation: Increasing international criticism and the potential for formal recognition of a Palestinian state are eroding Israel’s diplomatic leverage.
The Human Cost: The devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the plight of the hostages are weighing heavily on the israeli public and its leadership.The statements from these former security chiefs highlight a growing recognition that military force alone cannot resolve the israeli-Palestinian conflict. A sustainable solution will require a fundamental reassessment of Israel’s security strategy, a willingness to engage in meaningful negotiations, and a commitment to addressing the underlying political and economic grievances that fuel the conflict. The long-term implications of this internal dissent could reshape Israeli security policy for generations to come.

How does the experience of witnessing civilian harm in past conflicts influence veterans’ current advocacy for a ceasefire in Gaza?

A Growing Chorus of Military Voices Calls for De-escalation

A notable and increasingly vocal group of U.S. veterans, representing conflicts from Vietnam to Iraq and Afghanistan, are publicly demanding an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. This movement isn’t about taking sides in the complex Israeli-Palestinian conflict; it’s rooted in a shared understanding of the devastating human cost of war and a deep concern over the escalating humanitarian crisis. These veterans, having experienced the realities of combat firsthand, are leveraging their moral authority to advocate for a peaceful resolution. The call for a Gaza ceasefire is gaining momentum, fueled by a desire to prevent further loss of life and long-term instability.

Why veterans are Speaking Out: Shared Experiences & Moral Obligations

The motivations behind this veteran-led advocacy are multifaceted. Manny cite the parallels between the current situation in Gaza and the conflicts they participated in, recognizing the cycle of violence and the disproportionate impact on civilian populations.

Witnessing Civilian harm: Veterans often carry the burden of witnessing civilian casualties. This experience fuels a strong aversion to further bloodshed, nonetheless of the geopolitical context.

Understanding Long-Term Consequences: Having observed the long-term consequences of military intervention, these veterans are acutely aware of the potential for prolonged instability and radicalization resulting from the ongoing conflict. Humanitarian aid Gaza is a critical concern.

Moral Injury: The concept of moral injury – the psychological distress resulting from actions, or the failure to prevent actions, that violate one’s moral code – is central to many veterans’ motivations. They see a moral imperative to speak out against what they perceive as unjust suffering.

Preventing Further Radicalization: Many believe the current conflict is exacerbating extremist ideologies and creating a breeding ground for future violence. Conflict resolution is seen as the only viable path forward.

Organizations Leading the Charge for Peace

Several organizations are at the forefront of this movement, amplifying the voices of veterans and advocating for policy changes.

Veterans for Peace: A long-standing association dedicated to ending war and promoting peace, Veterans for Peace has been actively protesting and lobbying for a ceasefire in Gaza. They offer resources on peace activism and nonviolent resistance.

Common Defense: This veteran-led organization focuses on building a more just and peaceful world. They’ve launched campaigns specifically addressing the Gaza crisis, emphasizing the need for diplomacy and humanitarian assistance.

About Face: Veterans Against the War: This group provides a platform for veterans to share their experiences and advocate for responsible foreign policy. They focus on the psychological impacts of war and the importance of preventing future conflicts.

military Veterans for Peace: Focused on ending the cycle of violence and promoting peaceful solutions to global conflicts.

The impact of Veteran Advocacy: Shifting the Narrative

The involvement of veterans is proving to be a powerful force in shaping public discourse surrounding the Gaza conflict. Their testimonies offer a unique perspective, often cutting through political rhetoric and appealing to shared values of compassion and human dignity.

Media Coverage: Veteran voices are increasingly featured in mainstream media outlets, providing a counter-narrative to prevailing pro-war sentiments.

Political Pressure: Advocacy groups are actively lobbying lawmakers, urging them to support a ceasefire and prioritize humanitarian aid. Political advocacy is a key component of their strategy.

Public Awareness: Veterans are using social media and public speaking engagements to raise awareness about the devastating impact of the conflict on civilians.

Challenging the “Support the Troops” Narrative: by speaking out against the war, these veterans are challenging the often-uncritical “support the troops” narrative, arguing that true support means advocating for policies that protect soldiers and civilians alike.

Real-World Examples: Veteran Testimonies & Actions

Several veterans have publicly shared their experiences and perspectives, adding weight to the call for a ceasefire.

Liam Madden, a Marine Corps veteran who served in Iraq, has been a vocal critic of the Israeli government’s actions in Gaza, arguing that the collective punishment of civilians is morally reprehensible.

Sarah Plummer, an Army medic who served in Afghanistan, has spoken about the parallels between the trauma she witnessed in Afghanistan and the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza.

Direct Action Protests: Veterans have participated in nonviolent protests, including sit-ins at government buildings and demonstrations outside defense contractors, to demand an end to the violence. Nonviolent protest is a core tenet of their activism.

The Role of Humanitarian Organizations & Aid Efforts

Alongside the veteran-led advocacy, numerous humanitarian organizations are working tirelessly to provide aid to the people of Gaza.

Doctors Without Borders/Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF): Providing medical care to wounded civilians and operating hospitals in Gaza.

UNRWA (United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees): Delivering essential services, including food, shelter, and education, to Palestinian refugees. G