Natan Eshel, a close confidant of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, said in a message he sent to his associates that "there is no logic in continuing the fighting in the Gaza Strip, and therefore it must be stopped immediately." According to him, "it is a shame for every soldier's life to continue the unnecessary fighting in Gaza. The war is currently not bringing any hostages or military or security achievements." He added that the solution for him to end the war is a siege: "This is the only way that has surrendered Jerusalem and its surroundings, and throughout world history, all wars."