Tel Aviv, Israel — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected Hamas’ calls for a ceasefire and pledged to continue Israel’s military campaign in Gaza until achieving what he described as “complete victory.” He also stated that he had instructed the Israel Defense Forces to prepare for an advancement into the southern Gaza city of Rafah, despite numerous warnings from humanitarian organizations about potential severe consequences. Most of the approximately 1.5 million Palestinians displaced by the conflict in Gaza have sought refuge in the southern city close to the border with Egypt, or the surrounding area. Many are currently residing in overcrowded U.N.-run shelters and makeshift tent camps.
Netanyahu’s remarks were made on Wednesday shortly after his meeting with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who has been traveling across the region in an effort to secure a ceasefire agreement.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken shakes hands with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in West Jerusalem, Feb. 7, 2024.
GPO/Handout/Anadolu/Getty
The U.S. has been urging Israel to modify its approach in Gaza due to the escalating death toll. Officials in the Hamas-governed territory claim that the number of casualties is approaching 28,000. Many of the victims have been women and children, but Hamas officials do not distinguish between combatants and civilians in their reported statistics.
Click here to view related media.
click to expand
“We are on the path to complete victory,” stated Netanyahu, emphasizing that the IDF’s operation in Gaza would last for months rather than years. “There is no alternative,” the Israeli leader insisted, adding that accepting the terms proposed by Hamas, which has long been designated as a terrorist organization by Israel, the U.S., and the European Union, would “pave the way for another massacre.” The ongoing war in the densely-populated Gaza Strip was triggered by Hamas’ brutal Oct. 7 terror attack on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people and the taking of more than 200 hostages.
Israel expands Gaza assault to Rafah
Netanyahu categorically dismissed any proposal that would leave Hamas in full or partial control of Gaza, as per the group’s latest offer detailed by a media outlet closely linked to their Lebanese allies, Hezbollah.
Netanyahu also asserted that Israel was the “sole power” capable of ensuring long-term security. The Israeli Prime Minister also called for the replacement of the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, UNRWA, which is currently facing an investigation commissioned by the U.N. after Israel accused a dozen of its staff members of participating in the Oct. 7 terror attack. Blinken was expected to hold a press conference later on Wednesday.
Israel & Hamas At War
More
More
Read More
