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In a firm and resolute message to Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a stern warning on Tuesday, declaring that although Israel did not initiate this conflict, it is determined to bring it to a decisive conclusion.
As part of its response to Hamas, Israel has mobilized a significant force of 300,000 troops, marking the largest mobilization since the 1973 Yom Kippur War when 400,000 reservists were called up, as reported by the Times of Israel.
Prime Minister Netanyahu addressed the nation, stating, "Israel is at war. We didn't want this war. It was forced upon us in the most brutal and savage way. But though Israel didn't start this war, Israel will finish it."
In the surprise attack launched by Hamas on Saturday morning, more than 2,300 Israelis have sustained injuries, and the death toll has exceeded 700.
Netanyahu strongly condemned Hamas's actions, asserting that they will face severe consequences and long-lasting repercussions. He emphasized that Hamas's aggression against Israel is a grave mistake and vowed that the price they pay will be remembered by both Hamas and Israel's other adversaries for decades.
Describing the horrifying attacks committed by Hamas, Netanyahu said, "The savage attacks that Hamas perpetrated against innocent Israelis are mindboggling: slaughtering families in their homes, massacring hundreds of young people at an outdoor festival, and kidnapping scores of women, children, and the elderly, even Holocaust survivors. Hamas terrorists bound, burned, and executed children. They are savages."
Comparing Hamas to ISIS, he called upon the "forces of civilization" to unite against Hamas and defeat it. Netanyahu declared, "Hamas is ISIS. And just as the forces of civilization united to defeat ISIS, the forces of civilization must support Israel in defeating Hamas."
He also expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden and other world leaders for their support. Netanyahu stated, "I am in continuous contact with President Biden, and I would like to thank him again, on behalf of all the citizens of Israel, for the commitment of the US in words and deeds for the security of Israel. Also, I want to thank many world leaders for your unprecedented support for Israel."
Concluding his speech, Netanyahu asserted, "In fighting Hamas, Israel is not only fighting for its own people. It is fighting for every country that stands against barbarism. Israel will win this war, and when Israel wins, the entire civilized world will win."
Meanwhile, the Israeli military has initiated a significant offensive against Hamas, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing to use unprecedented force. Hamas has issued threats, stating that civilian hostages will be executed without warning and the killings will be broadcast if Israel targets individuals in Gaza. The group claims to be holding more than 100 hostages, including Israeli army officers.
