Israeli PM Netanyahu Defends Gaza Offensive, Aims to Finish Hamas
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended plans for a large-scale military operation in Gaza, asserting that Israel has no alternative but to defeat Hamas. Speaking from Jerusalem amidst escalating violence and international criticism, Netanyahu clarified that Israel's objective is not to occupy Gaza, but to demilitarise it and remove Hamas from power.
He proposed establishing Israeli security control while installing a non-Israeli civilian administration to govern the territory. Netanyahu's statement follows a significant increase in violence, resulting in numerous Palestinian casualties and drawing widespread international concern. The planned offensive aims to target Hamas strongholds within Gaza.