JERUSALEM — A group of some 600 retired Israeli security officials, including former heads of intelligence agencies, have written to US President Donald Trump to pressure Israel to immediately end the war in Gaza.

According to their statement, they believe that Hamas no longer poses a strategic threat to Israel and are urging Netanyahu's government to cease military operations, return hostages, and halt the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza.

The appeal comes amid reports that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering expanding military operations in Gaza as indirect ceasefire talks with Hamas stall.

The conflict began following Hamas's attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, resulting in over 60,000 deaths according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The situation has been exacerbated by Israel's restrictions on goods entering the territory, leading to a severe humanitarian crisis marked by starvation and malnutrition-related deaths.

The intervention by the former Israeli officials follows the release of videos showing two emaciated Israeli hostages held in Gaza, sparking international outrage.

While Netanyahu has stated that efforts to return all hostages will continue, there are concerns that Israel may escalate its military actions in Gaza, which could further isolate the country internationally.

Public opinion polls suggest a growing negative sentiment towards Israel globally due to the conflict and its impact on Palestinians.

It remains uncertain what pressure, if any, Trump will exert on Netanyahu in response to these appeals.