Tel Aviv: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a public address to the nation, blamed Hamas for reigniting the conflict and defended the resumption of military operations in Gaza. He posted a video on his X account where he held Hamas responsible for this war. "Israel does not target Palestinian civilians. We target Hamas terrorists," he added, asking Gazans to move to safer places.
He claimed that Israel had refrained from initiating military action for two weeks in hopes that Hamas would change its stance. However, following Hamas' rejection of a proposal by US President Donald Trump's special envoy, Steve Witkoff, Netanyahu said he had no choice but to order a renewed offensive.
"Hamas is responsible for this war," Netanyahu declared. "It invaded our towns, murdered our people, raped our women, and kidnapped our loved ones. Hamas refused offer after offer to release our hostages." Netanyahu's statement comes hours after Israel launched a large-scale aerial assault across the Gaza Strip. According to local health officials, the strikes killed at least 404 people and wounded more than 560, shattering a ceasefire that had held since January.
The truce between Israel and Hamas began on January 17, 2025. During the truce, hostage exchange took place. Hamas abducted around 250 Israelis on October 7, and they still have 80 hostages with them. Israel believes that three of them are dead. Netanyahu also thanked President Trump for his "unwavering support" and vowed that Israel would continue its mission to destroy Hamas and bring hostages home.
