Gallant Criticizes Netanyahu's 'Total Victory' Rhetoric

US officials report that Israel has achieved most of its military objectives against Hamas in Gaza, significantly weakening the group but acknowledging that complete eradication is unlikely without a comprehensive agreement for hostage release. Meanwhile, internal discord within the Israeli government has surfaced, with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's rhetoric of 'total victory' as unrealistic and unhelpful. Gallant's remarks, leaked from closed-door Knesset meetings, argue that recent military successes should pivot towards a hostage deal rather than continued conflict. Netanyahu's office rebuffed Gallant, accusing him of harming hostage negotiation efforts. Despite the tension, Gallant remains in his position, highlighting fractures in Netanyahu's administration during a critical period of potential retaliation and strategic decision-making.