Egypt Daily News – In a sharply critical op-ed published by Maariv, Israeli Reserve Major General Yitzhak Brik accused the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit of misleading the Israeli public through “false narratives” of military success in Gaza. Brik, a former senior official in Israel’s military establishment, warned that such narratives are creating an illusion of strength and masking critical failures.
A “Culture of Deception”
Brik charged that the military’s communications apparatus has evolved into a propaganda tool, inventing victories and concealing defeats. He claims this culture of distortion is actively supported by the army’s top leadership, including the Chief of Staff.
“This culture of lies,” Brik wrote, “helped pave the way for the disaster of October 7, 2023. And its continuation today is dragging Israel toward another strategic catastrophe.”
According to Brik, the field reality in Gaza starkly contrasts with the army’s public claims. Despite repeated official statements touting the destruction of Hamas’ capabilities and the killing of thousands of fighters, Brik said these assertions “do not reflect the truth on the ground.”
Hamas Regains Strength
Brik warned that Hamas’ military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, has largely recovered its fighting strength and now numbers around 40,000 combatants. He said these fighters are embedded in an extensive tunnel network stretching hundreds of kilometers under Gaza.
He cited testimonies from Israeli soldiers and officers indicating that they rarely encounter Hamas fighters directly. Instead, Hamas continues to wage a guerrilla-style campaign, using ambushes and hit-and-run tactics.
Criticism of Media and Call for Reform
Brik didn’t spare the Israeli media, accusing journalists and military analysts of uncritically repeating official statements. He said they have become “partners in misleading the Israeli public,” giving legitimacy to a prolonged war that lacks tangible military achievements.
In the conclusion of his column, Brik called for a complete restructuring of the IDF Spokesperson’s Unit based on transparency and professionalism. He urged Israel to pursue a ceasefire deal that includes the release of hostages, paired with a comprehensive national reform plan encompassing the military, economy, and society.
Longtime Critic of the War Effort
Yitzhak Brik has been among the most outspoken critics of Israel’s military and political leadership since the beginning of the war in Gaza. He has consistently accused the government and army of lacking preparedness and the capability to manage a multi-front war—or even decisively win in Gaza alone.
His latest commentary underscores growing internal dissent within Israel’s security establishment, amid an ongoing conflict that has raised serious questions about strategy, communication, and national resilience.
