Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a resolute address to the nation, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to two main objectives in the ongoing conflict with Hamas: the eradication of Hamas by dismantling its military and governance structures and the safe return of captives.
In his address, Prime Minister Netanyahu underscored the gravity of the situation, stating that “Israel is in the midst of a fight for our existence.” He left no room for ambiguity, declaring that “all Hamas members are dead men walking — above and below ground, inside and outside Gaza.”
The Israeli government, in collaboration with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, Minister Benny Gantz, the Security Cabinet, the Chief-of-Staff, and security organizations, is tirelessly working to achieve the war’s objectives without political considerations.
Netanyahu reiterated that the primary goals of the conflict are “saving the nation” and achieving victory, asserting, “we are raining down hellfire on Hamas, and we have already eliminated thousands of terrorists – and this is only the beginning.”
Addressing speculation about a potential ground operation in Gaza, the Prime Minister acknowledged its inevitability but declined to disclose specifics regarding timing, methods, or the number of troops involved. He emphasized that these details are safeguarded to protect the lives of Israeli soldiers.
Preparations for a ground incursion into Gaza are underway, with Israel having drafted 350,000-400,000 soldiers since the recent attacks on its southern communities. The Prime Minister clarified that the timing of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) action will be determined unanimously by the War Cabinet, in coordination with the IDF Chief-of-Staff.
Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s call to non-combatant Gazans to seek refuge in southern Gaza, where a significant number have already relocated from the northern region of the strip.
While some Gazans had reportedly returned to their homes in the north, anticipating a lull in fighting, IDF spokesperson Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari emphasized that Israel had intensified aerial strikes to “improve” the situation for the expected ground incursion.
The ongoing conflict is expected to be protracted, and the IDF spokesperson stressed the need for resilience, trust, and patience from the public to achieve the war’s objectives.
Regarding the October 7 events, Prime Minister Netanyahu acknowledged the need for a comprehensive investigation, but he insisted that this should occur only after the current conflict. He described the events of that day as a “black day in our history” and expressed his commitment to thoroughly investigate what transpired.
In conclusion, Netanyahu emphasized his responsibility as the Prime Minister to secure Israel’s future and lead the nation to victory over its adversaries. He called upon the public to unite and strive for victory with unwavering faith in the justice of their cause.
The conflict in the region continues, with ongoing international concerns about its escalation and the humanitarian impact on the people in the area.
Sources By Agencies