Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing the nation during the weekly cabinet meeting, emphasized Israel's unwavering determination to secure a resounding victory over Hamas, as the conflict marked six months since the devastating October 7th massacre in Gaza. Netanyahu underscored the paramount objectives of the ongoing war: the safe return of all hostages, the complete dismantlement of Hamas across Gaza, including Rafah, and the assurance that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel.
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Clear in his stance, Netanyahu asserted to the international community that there would be no ceasefire without the release of hostages, firmly reiterating Israel's policy on the matter. He welcomed the reaffirmation of this stance by the Biden administration. Netanyahu laid blame on Hamas for impeding negotiations for a temporary truce and hostage release, highlighting their uncompromising demands aimed at perpetuating their existence and capacity for harm.
Netanyahu cautioned against acquiescing to Hamas's demands, which would only embolden them to perpetrate further atrocities. He stressed that conceding to such demands would only empower Hamas to replicate the horrors of October 7th. Netanyahu called for unity among Israel's citizens in the face of these challenges, urging resolve and solidarity as the nation confronts the ongoing conflict.
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