Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the military campaign in Gaza will continue until Hamas is completely defeated and all hostages are released. Amidst international pressure to end the conflict and internal protests, Netanyahu stated his commitment to achieving the complete defeat of Hamas. He emphasized that Israel will not cease operations until this goal is accomplished. In a statement before a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu asserted that the aim is to ensure Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. This declaration comes as the Israeli military has occupied approximately 70% of the Gaza Strip since the conflict began on October 7, 2023. The ongoing indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas regarding prisoner exchanges and a ceasefire have not yet yielded results. Furthermore, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant echoed Netanyahu’s sentiments, stating that the war’s objectives include eliminating Hamas and securing the return of all captives. He indicated that these two goals must be achieved simultaneously, even amidst internal government disagreements on extending the war and occupying the entire Gaza Strip. Gallant affirmed that all necessary measures will be taken to defeat Hamas. He also stressed that the military leadership must adhere to the decisions of the political leadership.
