Egypt Daily News – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Hamas’s rhetoric about liberating Palestine equates to a threat against the existence of Israel.
During his remarks, he expressed condolences to the family of a prisoner killed in Gaza, underscoring the emotional toll of the conflict.
He noted the significant loss of Israeli soldiers and police in the ongoing military actions in Gaza, recalling the brutal events of October 7, which he termed one of the most severe attacks against Jews since the Holocaust.
Netanyahu described Israel’s strategic goals in the conflict as dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities, securing the release of hostages, and preventing the organization from posing future threats.
He particularly stressed the importance of controlling the Philadelphi Route, which he linked to arms smuggling and the overall security strategies employed by Israel in its military operations.
He cautioned against abandoning the Philadelphi Route, recalling past experiences where Israel faced challenges in returning to territories it had previously vacated, particularly in Lebanon. Netanyahu stated that the security of the region and the safety of Israel are paramount and intertwined with the military’s ongoing efforts in Gaza.
Furthermore, he claimed that Hamas is attempting to manipulate public sentiment within Israel, aiming to weaken morale and create divisions.
Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to ensuring both the release of hostages and the nation’s security, asserting that any future ceasefire negotiations must include provisions to prevent smuggling from the area.
In sum, Netanyahu’s statements reinforced Israel’s stance on military engagement with Hamas, the critical nature of territorial control, and a resolute approach to negotiations regarding hostages and security.
