نتنياهو: لن نتخلّى عن هزيمة حماس وإطلاق الرهائن

Amid differences within the occupying government regarding the expansion of the war and the complete occupation of the Gaza Strip, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages. In statements prior to a government meeting today (Tuesday), he expressed his determination to "ensure that Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel," as he put it.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant considered that the elimination of Hamas, alongside the return of the captives, are the objectives of the war in Gaza. He emphasized during a tour in Gaza that these two goals must be achieved, according to Israeli media reports. He stated: "We will do whatever is necessary to defeat Hamas." He called on the military level to adhere to the decisions of the political level as they always do, in his words. He added: "According to my responsibility, I will ensure the professional implementation of the political level's decision."

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir said: If the government decides to occupy Gaza and subdue Hamas, it will be up to the Chief of Staff to execute.

Israeli forces occupy about 70% of the Gaza Strip two years after the bloody war that erupted on October 7, 2023, following the attack launched by Hamas on Israeli settlements and military bases in the Gaza envelope.

Netanyahu is moving towards the complete occupation of the sector, including central Gaza, according to reports from Israeli media, as indirect negotiations between the Israeli side and Hamas for a prisoner exchange and a ceasefire have stalled.