“Maariv”: “Israel” Walks on the Edge of the Abyss

By Al-Ahed News, “Maariv”

In an article published by “Maariv”, military commentator Avi Ashkenazi warned that “Israel” is dangerously approaching the brink of collapse. He revealed that, since October 7, 2024—over a year ago—Mossad chief David Barnea and Shin Bet director Ronen Bar have been leading the negotiations for the release of captives held by Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Gaza.

However, “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu removed both officials from the process last week and appointed his close ally, Minister Ron Dermer, to head the negotiating team instead.

Ashkenazi claims this move is widely seen as Netanyahu's attempt to freeze the talks and block progress toward the second phase of the current deal between the parties. He cautions that "Israel" is now walking on the edge of the abyss.

“Tens of thousands of reservists were called up to duty in recent days,” he says. “Army units are expected to enter intense combat in Gaza soon. This will not be a clean operation. Hamas is booby-trapping roads and buildings, preparing for close-quarters confrontation. It will be brutal. Yes, 'Israel' will inflict heavy damage and strike Hamas, but the cost will be immense and painful.”

Ashkenazi continued, “Even US President Donald Trump, who can hardly be described as a ‘leftist’, is asking: What exactly is the ‘Israeli’ government trying to achieve? What are the objectives on the ground? What is the endgame?”

He added, “At this moment, Hamas is ready to strike a deal that includes the return of the captives in exchange for a full ceasefire and a commitment to end the war. The Americans, Egyptians and all the other mediators are aware that this offer is on the table. And everyone also knows that if David Barnea and Ronen Bar were still in charge, things would look very different by now — the captives might already be home.”