The civil defense agency in Gaza has indicated that Israeli air strikes have resulted in the loss of at least 54 lives, with expectations that this number may continue to rise. “Fifty-four people have been killed in Israeli air strikes on the Gaza Strip since dawn today… and the number is likely to rise as the bombing continues until this moment,” stated Mahmud Bassal, a spokesman for the agency.
In the midst of this crisis, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reaffirmed his commitment to secure the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza, asserting that he will not yield to Hamas’ demands. He emphasized that the military operations in the region have reached a “critical stage.” “I believe we can bring our hostages home without surrendering to Hamas’s dictates,” Mr. Netanyahu declared, marking his first public comments following Hamas’ rejection of a new truce proposal, aimed at achieving a lasting resolution to the conflict.
This statement provoked an immediate response from a campaign group representing the families of the hostages, who accused Mr. Netanyahu of lacking a concrete plan for the captives’ liberation. “There is one clear, feasible, and urgent solution that can be achieved now: reach a deal that will bring everyone home – even if it means stopping the fighting,” the Hostages and Missing Families Forum expressed in a statement.
However, Mr. Netanyahu firmly stated that ceasing hostilities at this juncture would only serve to embolden adversaries. “Ending the war under these surrender conditions would send a message to all of Israel’s enemies: that abducting Israelis can bring Israel to its knees. It would prove that terrorism pays – and that message would endanger the entire free world,” he argued.
He further articulated his position regarding Hamas’ demands, asserting that they seek not only an end to hostilities but also an unconditional Israeli withdrawal, which he believes would allow Hamas to rearm and orchestrate future attacks. “If we commit to ending the war, we will not be able to resume fighting in Gaza,” he warned. “So I ask you – did our soldiers fight in vain? Did our heroes fall and suffer for nothing?”
In navigating this complex and tragic situation, the voices of both leaders and families offer crucial insights into the unfolding events. The hope remains that a peaceful resolution can ultimately be achieved.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
