Sun Feb 09 06:24:00 UTC 2025: ## Former Israeli Defense Minister Admits Authorizing Controversial “Hannibal Directive” During Hamas Attack

**JERUSALEM** – Former Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has admitted authorizing the controversial “Hannibal Directive” during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, sparking outrage and raising questions about civilian casualties. In an interview with Channel 12, Gallant confirmed the directive – which permits the use of force to prevent captive soldiers from falling into enemy hands, even at the risk of killing hostages – was implemented in certain areas, but not others. He called this inconsistency a “problem.”

The admission comes amid already intense international scrutiny of Israel’s response to the Hamas attack, which resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,100 Israeli soldiers and civilians. Gallant’s statement suggests that Israeli actions may have also resulted in the deaths of Israeli hostages and civilians, a claim supported by UN reports citing Israeli attacks on civilians at the Nova music festival.

Gallant further revealed that he advocated for a preemptive strike on Hezbollah in Lebanon just days after the Hamas attack, arguing that the government’s failure to act represented a significant missed opportunity. He claimed an early strike could have significantly crippled Hezbollah’s arsenal.

The former minister also leveled accusations against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, claiming the government delayed a potential ceasefire deal in April 2024 that could have secured the release of more hostages while minimizing Palestinian prisoner releases. He stated that the government “did not do everything it could have to return the hostages,” many of whom were killed by subsequent Israeli airstrikes and friendly fire.

Gallant’s revelations follow the January resignation of Israel’s top general, Herzi Halevi, who cited intelligence failures. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of at least 47,000 Palestinians, with some estimates significantly higher. While three Israeli hostages were released on February 8th as part of a prisoner exchange, the conflict continues to generate controversy and questions over the conduct of the Israeli military.

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