“The extreme part of combating in opposition to Hamas is nearing an finish,” Netanyahu instructed Israeli broadcaster Channel 14 on Sunday. However this doesn’t imply “that the struggle will quickly be over.”
Israel has situated the final remaining Hamas battalions within the Gaza Strip in Rafah on the border with Egypt and has been taking motion in opposition to targets within the metropolis for weeks regardless of worldwide criticism. After the top of the intensive part, “we can transfer some forces once more to the north,” Netanyahu introduced. This might be accomplished “primarily” for defensive functions, but additionally to convey once more the residents who’ve fled from there.
Netanyahu “open to partial settlement”
Netanyahu mentioned he wouldn’t enter into an settlement that may finish the struggle within the Gaza Strip. Nevertheless, he was open to a “partial settlement” that would come with the return of hostages from the Gaza Strip. “The aim is to convey once more these kidnapped and to uproot the Hamas regime in Gaza,” mentioned the Israeli head of presidency.
US officers have expressed doubts regarding Israel’s aim of utterly destroying Hamas. Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari additionally expressed related doubts on Wednesday, describing Hamas as an “ideology” that can not be “eradicated.”