Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel will persist with its military offensive in Gaza, even if Hamas agrees to a ceasefire and hostage release deal.
The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are currently conducting an operation to capture Gaza City, a region considered a key stronghold for the Hamas militant group. Netanyahu maintained that the objective of removing Hamas from the area is non-negotiable, drawing on the support of former US President Donald Trump, who has expressed the view that Hamas should be removed from Gaza.
Despite international warnings from the UN Secretary General and humanitarian organizations about the potential for further loss of life, Netanyahu has dismissed such criticism as a ‘tsunami of anti-Semitism.’ The deteriorating humanitarian situation has led to discussions about recognizing the State of Palestine, with France indicating it will formally do so next month.