Netanyahu on Gaza Operations: Shifting Focus Amidst Escalating Tensions with Hezbollah
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that Israel plans to soon conclude the intense phase of its operations in Gaza and will pivot some military focus to northern Israel.
This strategic shift comes as hostilities with Hezbollah, the Lebanon-based militant group, have intensified, raising concerns about a potential broader conflict.
Transitioning to Targeted Actions
In a TV interview with Israel’s Channel 14, aired late Sunday, Netanyahu indicated a change in strategy for Israel's military efforts in Gaza. He stated that the focus would now move towards more precise and targeted operations against Hamas.
Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will end major operations in Gaza 'very soon' https://t.co/uM7QtOe4vN
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When questioned about the timeline for ending combat in Rafah, a southern Gaza city, Netanyahu confirmed that these new targeted actions would be implemented soon.
This interview marked Netanyahu's first appearance on Israeli media since the October 7 attacks by Hamas militants from Gaza. These attacks led to the deaths of 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 250 others, initiating an ongoing eight-month conflict with Israel.
Redeployment to Northern Israel
Netanyahu highlighted the military's next steps, which include redeploying some forces to northern Israel, where tensions with Hezbollah have been escalating. He also mentioned plans to assist in the return of residents who had been evacuated from the north due to the conflict.
“If we can, we’ll achieve this diplomatically; otherwise, it will be handled differently," Netanyahu remarked, reflecting on the growing friction with Hezbollah.
The United States has expressed concerns about the potential for open warfare between Israel and Hezbollah, a heavily armed Lebanese militia backed by Iran. The war in Gaza has heightened long-standing tensions with Hezbollah and other Iran-backed groups across the region.
Netanyahu on Gaza Operations: Potential Offensive in Lebanon
Israel’s military recently announced that they have finalized plans for a potential offensive in Lebanon. This preparation is part of their ongoing response to the conflict following last year's ground invasion of Gaza. This invasion aimed to rescue hostages and dismantle Hamas as a military and political entity.
According to Gaza authorities, approximately 37,000 Palestinians have been killed since then, though these numbers do not differentiate between fighters and civilians. The U.S. and the European Union classify Hamas as a terrorist organization.
In the interview, Netanyahu explicitly rejected, for the first time, the possibility of a ceasefire deal with Hamas as suggested by U.S. President Joe Biden. Netanyahu asserted, "Any agreement will be on our terms and will not entail ending the war, withdrawing from Gaza, or leaving Hamas in control."
Hostage Negotiations and Reactions
Netanyahu did express openness to a limited agreement that could secure the release of some Israeli hostages. He stated, "I am open to a partial deal that could return some of the hostages. After such a ceasefire ends, we will remain dedicated to continuing the fight until Hamas is completely eliminated."
However, Netanyahu's remarks in the interview sparked anger among the families of the remaining 120 hostages in Gaza. They accused him of neglecting his duty to these citizens and issued a statement condemning his stance as a violation of Israel's moral obligation.
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