Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made a firm commitment to continue the battle against Hamas until the Palestinian group is completely eradicated and Gaza no longer poses a danger. This statement follows reports that Hamas has rejected West Jerusalem’s proposal for another week-long “humanitarian pause” in return for the release of 40 Israeli captives.
In a video message shared on X (formerly Twitter) by his spokesperson Ofir Gendelman, Netanyahu declared, “We will persist in this war until we achieve victory. Our objectives are clear: the complete elimination of Hamas and the liberation of all our hostages.” He further emphasized, “The choice I present to Hamas is straightforward: surrender or face the consequences of death. Every member of Hamas, without exception, is living on borrowed time.”
Netanyahu also assured that once Hamas is eliminated, Israel will take measures to ensure that Gaza no longer poses a threat. He dismissed any notion of Israel halting its efforts, stating, “Anyone who believes we will cease our actions is disconnected from reality.”
The video message, delivered in Hebrew with English subtitles, appears to have been recorded on Wednesday evening following the reported breakdown of ceasefire negotiations. According to undisclosed sources cited by the Wall Street Journal, Israel had proposed a temporary cessation of military operations for one week in exchange for the release of hostages and increased humanitarian aid to the Palestinian enclave.
According to the Journal, Hamas rejected the offer and insisted on a halt to the offensive against Gaza before engaging in any talks.
During their incursion into Israel on October 7, the Palestinian group took approximately 240 Israeli captives, resulting in the deaths of around 1,200 people. Despite a week-long truce in November that led to the exchange of some hostages, it is estimated that around 120 individuals remain in Hamas captivity. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) have already taken control of the northern part of Gaza and caused significant damage to the enclave’s infrastructure.
Local health authorities have reported that over 19,500 Palestinians have lost their lives during the conflict. While the US has urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to minimize civilian casualties, they have continued to provide military and other forms of support to Israel. West Jerusalem has faced criticism from abroad, with the Houthis of Yemen openly supporting the Palestinians and launching attacks on Israeli-linked ships in the Red Sea.
