In a bold and unapologetic statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Hamas, the Iranian-backed Palestinian group, is no different from ISIS, also known as Daesh. He vowed to treat Hamas accordingly and wage war against the terrorist organization. Netanyahu recounted the horrific killings committed by Hamas, including the murder of innocent children dragged from their homes.
The Brutality of Hamas
Netanyahu’s assertion that Hamas is ISIS stems from the gruesome acts committed by the Palestinian group. He highlighted the killings carried out by Hamas, such as dragging children out of their homes to be murdered. These acts of violence demonstrate the ruthless nature of Hamas, mirroring the brutality of ISIS. Netanyahu emphasized that the world now knows who Hamas truly is, and Israel will respond accordingly.
“Once, the Jewish people were stateless. Once, the Jewish people were defenseless. No longer.
“Hamas will understand that by attacking us, they have made a mistake of historic proportions. We will exact a price that will be remembered by them and Israel’s other enemies for decades to come.
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“Hamas is ISIS.
“And just as the forces of civilization united to defeat ISIS, the forces of civilization must support Israel in defeating Hamas.”
Netanyahu’s Five Objectives
In response to Hamas’s actions, Netanyahu outlined five objectives that Israel aims to achieve. First, Israel seeks to remove Hamas terrorists from Israeli communities and territory. This objective emphasizes the importance of protecting Israeli citizens from the threat of terrorism. Second, Israel plans to launch a massive attack on Hamas in Gaza, aiming to degrade the organization’s capabilities and infrastructure.
The third objective is to maintain calm on Israel’s borders, particularly with Lebanon and the West Bank. Netanyahu recognizes the need for stability and security across all fronts. The fourth objective is to continue diplomatic normalization with the Arab and Muslim world, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to peace and cooperation in the region.
Lastly, Netanyahu aims to unite Israelis by offering opposition parties the opportunity to join an emergency national unity government. This call for unity reflects the prime minister’s belief that Israel’s strength lies in its solidarity. By achieving these objectives, Netanyahu hopes to restore peace and security to Israel.
Israel’s Response: Transforming Hamas Strongholds into Ruins
Netanyahu made it clear that Israel’s attacks on Hamas had only just begun. He vowed to transform every place Hamas uses against Israel into ruins. This assertion emphasizes Israel’s determination to dismantle Hamas’s infrastructure and disrupt their operations. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Joe Biden’s support, noting that the United States has responded to Israel’s security needs in both word and deed.
The prime minister also warned against the spread of “fake news” designed to undermine morale and unity in Israel. This cautionary message highlights the importance of accurate reporting and the potential harm caused by misinformation during times of conflict.
שידור חי: https://t.co/98eo8kIhyQ
— Benjamin Netanyahu – בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) October 9, 2023
Israel’s Strength and Resolve
Netanyahu’s message in English resonates with the strength and resolve of the Israeli people. He reaffirmed that the Jewish people are no longer defenseless and stateless. Israel, as a nation, stands united in the face of aggression. By attacking Israel, Hamas has made a historic mistake and will face the consequences of their actions.
The prime minister drew a parallel between Hamas and ISIS, asserting that just as the forces of civilization united to defeat ISIS, they must support Israel in defeating Hamas. This comparison underscores the severity of Hamas’s actions and highlights the need for a unified response from the international community.
The Ongoing Conflict and International Response
Notably, Netanyahu did not mention Iran in his address. However, it is crucial to acknowledge Iran’s role as a sponsor of Hamas and other terrorist organizations. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas raises questions about Iran’s involvement and its broader regional strategy.
The international community’s response to the conflict has varied. The European Union initially considered suspending aid payments to Palestine but later backtracked on this decision. The United Nations has warned Israel against imposing a retaliatory siege on Gaza, citing international law.