Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that the military campaign in Gaza will persist despite growing international pressure for an immediate ceasefire. Netanyahu’s resolute stance follows a non-binding resolution passed by the United Nations General Assembly, calling for a humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional release of hostages. The situation escalated with one of the deadliest attacks on the Israeli army during a ground operation in Gaza, resulting in nine soldiers losing their lives in a Hamas ambush.
Netanyahu’s Defiance:
Addressing the ongoing conflict, Netanyahu asserted, “We will continue until the end. There is no question at all. I say this in light of great pain, but also in light of international pressure. Nothing will stop us. We are going until the end, until victory, nothing less than that.” This statement emphasizes Israel’s commitment to achieving its objectives despite the mounting global calls for de-escalation.
International Response:
The international community, as represented by the UN General Assembly, has been urging an immediate cessation of hostilities. The resolution, passed overwhelmingly, underscores the global concern for the humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza. The Biden administration in the United States has delayed the sale of over 20,000 US-made rifles to Israel, citing concerns about attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the occupied West Bank.
Military Developments:
As intense fighting continues between Hamas and Israeli forces in both north and south Gaza, the Israel Defence Force (IDF) reported one of its deadliest days, with 10 soldiers killed in the past 24 hours. The IDF’s push into Gaza aims to secure what Prime Minister Netanyahu describes as a “crushing victory” over Hamas.
US-Israel Relations:
The Biden administration’s decision to delay the sale of rifles to Israel reflects a growing unease over the situation. National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is expected to visit Israel for discussions, emphasizing the seriousness of the concerns regarding civilian casualties and settler attacks in the West Bank.
Hamas Response:
Hamas Chief Ismail Haniyeh, in a televised address, dismissed the possibility of any arrangement in Gaza without the involvement of Hamas, stating that such notions are a “delusion.” Haniyeh expressed openness to discussions that could end the Israeli aggression and work towards stabilizing the Palestinian territories.
Ongoing Challenges:
The conflict in Gaza remains a complex and challenging situation, with escalating violence, significant military operations, and diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire. The world watches as the region grapples with the human toll and geopolitical implications of the ongoing hostilities.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s unwavering commitment to the military campaign in Gaza, despite international calls for a ceasefire, sets the stage for continued tension and uncertainty in the region. As diplomatic efforts intensify, the global community faces the pressing challenge of addressing the humanitarian crisis and finding a path towards a sustainable resolution to the longstanding conflict.
