Former NATO officers toured Gaza & stressed that Israel must control Rafah crossing

Former NATO Officers Praise IDF, Urge Control of Gaza-Egypt Border

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The Judean Staff
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In a powerful show of support, former NATO officers who toured Israel last week lauded the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) for their strategic operations and expressed confidence that Israel is nearing its war objectives. After visiting critical areas like Rafah and the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, the delegation strongly recommended that Israel maintain its military presence in these strategic zones to ensure security and stability.

This high-profile visit, organized by the European Leadership Network (ELNET) — an organization dedicated to bolstering Israel-Europe relations — featured a diverse delegation of about 15 former NATO commanders and officers. During their stay, the group engaged in comprehensive discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They were briefed by top IDF and defense officials, met with families of hostages, and toured communities deeply impacted by the ongoing conflict. A planned visit to the northern city of Kiryat Shmona was canceled due to Hezbollah rocket fire, underscoring the ongoing threats Israel faces on multiple fronts.

"A War Like No Other"

Brig. Gen. (ret.) Marius Dumitru Crăciun, the former head of Romanian special forces, highlighted the vast gap in understanding within Europe regarding the complexities of the current conflict. Addressing both international and domestic criticisms that Israel has yet to fully achieve its war aims, Crăciun emphasized, “This is not the 20th century; this is 21st-century warfare, which is fundamentally different. The IDF is employing tactics that are unprecedented. This is not just about boots on the ground anymore—it's also about boots underground. Clearing Hamas’s extensive tunnel networks is crucial, and this is a fight that can’t be rushed. Hamas had over a decade to fortify its positions; Israel must take the time necessary to dismantle them fully.”

On the matter of the Philadelphi Corridor, a key flashpoint in debates over Israel's military strategy, Crăciun was unequivocal: “Maintaining military control over the corridor is non-negotiable. Relinquishing it would be a strategic blunder that Israel cannot afford.”

Praising the caliber of the IDF's leadership, Crăciun noted, “The commanders I’ve met are some of the finest leaders I’ve encountered in any military. Their commitment, tactical acumen, and resilience are exceptional—they are arguably the IDF’s greatest asset.”

While acknowledging that Israel still has work to do to fully meet its objectives, Crăciun reaffirmed, “You’re on the right track. Keep pushing forward and see it through to the end.”

Meeting with the families of hostages, Crăciun expressed deep empathy, describing the experience as “heartbreaking.” He condemned Hamas’s use of hostages as leverage, calling it a “barbaric tactic” and a stark violation of all norms of humanity. “As a parent and grandparent, I feel their pain deeply,” he said. “But at the broader national level, it’s essential to prioritize the greater good. Yielding to such blackmail is not an option.”

"The Stakes Are Too High to Relinquish Ground"

Col. (ret.) Richard Kemp, a staunch advocate for Israel and former commander of British forces in Afghanistan, has been a vocal supporter of Israel’s right to defend its borders. Kemp has spent significant time in Israel since the outbreak of the war, offering his expertise on counter-terrorism and military strategy. Regarding the Philadelphi Corridor, Kemp’s stance has been consistent and clear: “From a professional perspective, giving up control of this critical border zone is out of the question. The Philadelphi Corridor is essentially Hamas’s lifeline; it’s vital for Israel to keep it under tight control.”

Kemp elaborated on the strategic importance of the corridor, stating, “This is not just a piece of land; it’s a gateway for weapons, fighters, and supplies to flow into Gaza. IDF soldiers have already paid the ultimate price to secure this area. Withdrawing now would not only dishonor their sacrifice but also jeopardize future operations. It’s a precarious balance between safeguarding lives and securing strategic advantages, but Israel must stand firm.”

Regarding the hostage situation, Kemp struck a resolute tone: “While the gravity of the hostage crisis cannot be overstated, their lives cannot be valued above the lives of IDF soldiers. This is a painful, yet necessary reality of modern warfare. Six weeks is more than enough time for significant developments, including the smuggling of hostages or weapons, should control be lost.”

Kemp was adamant that the international community, particularly the United States, should pivot their pressure away from urging Israel to make security compromises and instead focus on influencing Hamas and its backers in Qatar. “The leverage exists; it just hasn’t been effectively utilized,” he said.

"IDF's Performance: A Masterclass in Modern Warfare"

Lt. Col. (ret.) Jeff Tiegs, a former commander in the U.S. Delta Force, was equally impressed with the IDF’s execution of their military strategy. “The IDF’s achievements are nothing short of extraordinary,” Tiegs remarked. “Their ability to integrate heavy armor, infantry, special operations, and engineering units into a cohesive and highly effective fighting force reflects decades of refinement and learning—both from their own experiences and from the U.S. military. The IDF has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for rapid adaptation and learning.”

Addressing the controversy over the Philadelphi Corridor, Tiegs was firm in his assessment: “Ceding control of this strategic area would be both tactically and strategically unsound. The immediate security needs are too pressing, and it will likely take years before any alternative arrangements can be realistically considered.”

As Israel continues to navigate the complexities of modern warfare and counter-terrorism, the insights and endorsements of these former NATO officers underscore the challenges and stakes of the ongoing conflict. Their strong recommendations to maintain military control over key strategic areas, coupled with their commendation of the IDF’s conduct, bolster Israel’s resolve to see its mission through to completion.

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