Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that the war in Gaza will persist until the complete defeat of Hamas is achieved and all hostages are returned. This statement comes amidst ongoing international pressure to end the conflict and domestic protests against the war. Speaking before a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu affirmed his commitment to not ending the war until the stated objectives are met. He emphasized that a key goal is to ensure Gaza no longer threatens Israel. The Israeli military has already taken control of roughly 70% of the Gaza Strip since the commencement of the conflict on October 7, 2023. This announcement follows stalled indirect talks between Israel and Hamas regarding prisoner exchanges and a ceasefire. Alongside the Prime Minister, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant underscored that the aim of the war is to eliminate Hamas and secure the return of all hostages. He suggested that both goals should be pursued concurrently, even if there are internal government disputes over the expansion of the war and the occupation of all of Gaza. Gallant reiterated that all necessary actions would be taken to defeat Hamas, and highlighted the need for military leaders to follow political directives.
