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

Brig. Gen. (ret.) Dror Shalom, former head of the Defense Ministry’s Political-Military Bureau, criticized Israel’s strategic conduct in the ongoing war, calling it a “resounding failure” despite military achievements. He stated, “On a strategic level, we haven’t been able to get to a decisive result on any of the fronts.” Shalom argued that Hamas remains active, Hezbollah is not disarmed, and Iran's nuclear program persists, while Israel's international standing and U.S. relations are at a low point. He urged diplomatic initiatives, including advancing a plan for Gaza's reconstruction and reaching agreements with Lebanon and Syria to disarm Hezbollah. Shalom also suggested that hostages could have been returned “earlier and more,” crediting protests and the U.S. government. He emphasized the need for a balance between military force and diplomatic efforts, stating, “We need to also provide hope here.”