Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s Prime Minister, has once more reiterated his pledge not to end Israel’s military campaign in Gaza until Hamas is entirely dismantled despite mounting international pressure and humanitarian crises in the region.
Recently, Prime Minister Netanyahu declared at a press conference: “Israel will only end its war in Gaza once Hamas has been vanquished.” Any premature cessation would leave Hamas in power and continue posing threats against Israeli security. (AP News/PBS News).
Prime Minister Netanyahu made these comments following Hamas’s rejection of an American-backed ceasefire proposal that demanded permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal. Netanyahu rejected these conditions as unacceptable and indicative of Hamas’s attempt to maintain its grip over power. Reuters; New York Post; Financial Times
Israel recently reached an agreement for a temporary 60-day ceasefire aimed at facilitating hostage releases and humanitarian aid, but Prime Minister Netanyahu asserts this does not mark an end of conflict. His ultimate aim remains the complete destruction of Hamas’ military and governance capabilities.
New York Post +3 AP News +3 and Reuters all report positive developments during this time.
Wikipedia Since Hamas launched their attack against Israel on October 7th 2023, violence in Gaza has resulted in severe casualties and widespread destruction. International bodies including the UN have expressed grave concern at reports citing food, water and medical shortages which are reported throughout Gaza. AP News.
Netanyahu remains unyielding despite international calls for an indefinite ceasefire, asserting that ending the war without meeting Israel’s goals would be a strategic failure. According to him, only complete dismantlement of Hamas will guarantee long-term peace and security for Israel.
As the conflict unfolds, the international community closely observes and urges both sides to find an amicable path toward an equitable resolution that takes into account both security and humanitarian concerns.