Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed on Saturday that Israel must continue its military operations in Gaza. He stated that the fighting will not cease until Hamas is destroyed, the hostages are freed, and the territory no longer poses a threat to Israel. This statement comes amid increasing pressure from families of hostages and former soldiers who question the ongoing conflict following a ceasefire that was broken last month.
Netanyahu’s comments were made after a series of Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, which reportedly resulted in over 90 deaths within 48 hours, as reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry. Among the casualties were women and children, with specific incidents noted in the southern city of Khan Younis, where 11 people were killed in a tent designated as a humanitarian zone.
The situation has escalated, with Israeli forces intensifying their attacks to compel Hamas to release hostages and disarm. As the conflict continues, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza deepens. Aid groups have raised alarms about widespread malnutrition among children, with many families struggling to access basic food supplies.
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked southern Israel, leading to significant casualties and the abduction of hostages. Since then, Israel’s military response has resulted in over 51,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, which does not differentiate between combatants and civilians.
Frustration is palpable on both sides. In Gaza, there have been rare protests against Hamas, while in Israel, there are ongoing demonstrations demanding the government secure the release of all hostages. The conflict has left a significant portion of Gaza’s population displaced, with many living in makeshift camps or damaged buildings.
Netanyahu also reiterated Israel’s commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, highlighting the broader regional tensions that accompany the conflict. As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how both sides will respond to the mounting humanitarian concerns and calls for peace.