A leaked audio recording has surfaced, featuring former Israeli military intelligence chief Major General Aharon Haliva, in which he describes the deaths of tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza as “necessary and required for future generations.” The remarks were made during a discussion that has drawn widespread condemnation.
In the recording, which was disclosed by Israel’s Channel 12 news on Friday, Haliva states, “For everything that happened on October 7, for every one person on October 7, 50 Palestinians must die.” This comment follows the tragic events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched attacks in southern Israel that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 250 individuals.
Haliva’s comments reflect a chilling perspective on the ongoing conflict. He adds, “The fact that there are already 50,000 dead in Gaza is necessary and required for future generations.” This figure, which has been confirmed by various sources, surpassed 50,000 earlier this year. The former intelligence chief went on to discuss the concept of a “Nakba,” or “catastrophe,” referring to the mass displacement of Palestinians during the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948.
The timing of Haliva’s statements remains unclear, but they have provoked significant backlash. He resigned as head of Israeli military intelligence in April 2024, citing his “leadership responsibility” following the events of October 7, making him the first senior officer in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to do so.
Reactions to Haliva’s Remarks
Haliva’s comments have drawn sharp criticism from various international leaders. New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon remarked that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had “lost the plot,” condemning plans for a takeover of Gaza City as “utterly, utterly unacceptable.” Similarly, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen stated in an interview that “Netanyahu is now a problem in himself,” further highlighting the growing discontent over Israel’s military actions in Gaza.
In response to Haliva’s leaked comments, Hamas condemned the remarks, asserting that they reveal the high-level decisions and official policies driving the violence against Palestinians. A statement from Hamas described the audio as confirmation of systemic crimes against their people.
The situation in Gaza continues to evolve, with escalating tensions and military operations contributing to a humanitarian crisis. A report from a United Nations Special Committee released in November found that Israel’s conduct in Gaza “is consistent with the characteristics of genocide.” In addition, two Israeli human rights organizations issued accusations of genocide against Israel, which the Israeli military has firmly rejected, claiming these conclusions are “entirely unfounded.”
As the conflict persists, the discourse surrounding the humanitarian implications of military strategies remains critical. Haliva’s assertions have ignited a broader discussion about the responsibilities of military leaders and the moral implications of warfare on civilian populations.
In light of these developments, the international community is closely monitoring the actions and statements from both Israeli and Palestinian officials, seeking pathways to de-escalation and peace.
