Israeli minister Gantz gives Netanyahu an ultimatum

Member of the Israeli war cabinet Benny Gantz has called for a drastic strategic change saying "the  leadership must see the big picture, to find dangers, to identify opportunities, and to create an updated national strategy."

In a statement today he has issued an ultimatum, demanding that the war cabinet must formulate and put in place "a plan of action" by June 8 to achieve "six strategic goals":

1. The release of Hamas' held prisoners

2. "To topple Hamas rule, demilitarize the Gaza Strip and gain Israeli security control of Gaza

3. The establishment of an "international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza, including American, European, Arab and Palestinian elements, as an alternative for a Hamas or Abbas [Palestinian Authority President] rule.

4. The return of residents of the north to their homes by September 1 

5. The advance of normalization with Saudi Arabia as an alliance "with the free world and the West against Iran and its allies.''

6. The adoption of a framework for military service under which all Israelis will serve the state