Israeli war cabinet divided over plans to scale back Gaza war

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Israel's top government officials are in disagreement about whether to scale back the war against Hamas in Gaza and focus on a more substantial hostage release deal.

War cabinet member Gadi Eisenkot, whose son was recently killed while fighting in Gaza, issued a public call for Israel to engage in serious hostage negotiations. He was joined by fellow cabinet member Benny Gantz, but other members insist that the war against Hamas must continue.

Israel's leaders must "show courage and to lead to a large deal which will bring home the hostages," Eisenkot said this week, according to Israeli media. "Your time is running out, and each day that passes endangers their lives."

Meanwhile, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has criticized even the partial withdrawal of troops Israel conducted earlier this month. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant likewise warned that "political indecision" could derail the IDF's efforts in Gaza, according to NBC News.

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