Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that the war will continue until Hamas is eliminated, noting that "Hamas's demands mean defeat for Israel, and we will not agree to them." He stated, "I agreed to carry out the operation to free the kidnapped individuals a few days ago despite its risks." He added, "As of now, Hamas's demands mean defeat for Israel and cannot be accepted. Military pressure continues, and we will keep going until we eliminate Hamas brigades. Israel will fight until it achieves a decisive victory, and this is what we convey to all world leaders we communicate with."
Netanyahu mentioned that he sent negotiators to ceasefire talks in Cairo at the request of U.S. President Joe Biden, but they did not return to resume further discussions because Hamas's demands are a form of "fantasy." He stated, "We will not concede to any pressure in the face of international dictates because we are committed to eradicating evil. Anyone who asks us not to launch an operation in Rafah is asking us to lose the war. Our military pressure is bearing fruit, and we have reached areas in Gaza that the 'enemy' never imagined. Any agreement with the Palestinians will only be through direct negotiations between the two parties and without preconditions."
Amid massive protests in Tel Aviv calling for his removal, Netanyahu emphasized, "Elections are the last thing we need right now in Israel." He continued, "There is no economic failure, and the macroeconomic data in Israel is strong."
