Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that it is “not absolutely certain” that the recent IDF airstrike in Gaza successfully eliminated Hamas terror chief Muhammad Deif and his deputy, Rafa’a Salameh. However, Netanyahu firmly vowed that Israel remains committed to the complete eradication of Hamas leadership, stating, “one way or another,” this objective will be achieved, according to Times of Israel.
In a press conference held at the Defense Ministry headquarters in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu detailed the meticulous considerations that went into authorizing the strike. He emphasized that he approved the operation only after confirming that no hostages were present in the targeted area. Additionally, he required thorough intelligence regarding the potential collateral damage and the nature of the munitions to be employed, ensuring that the military action would be as precise as possible.
Palestinian health officials reported that the airstrike resulted in the deaths of at least 90 Palestinians and injured approximately 300 others in the Al Mawasi humanitarian zone. This incident marked the heaviest loss of life in the region in recent weeks. While the Israeli military confirmed that the strike hit a military compound, they were unable to verify the exact number of casualties.
Netanyahu’s remarks come amid mounting public pressure, with demonstrators in Tel Aviv urging more decisive action to secure the release of Israeli and foreign hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. He asserted that maintaining military pressure on Hamas is the most effective strategy for reaching an agreement to bring back the hostages who were abducted during the October 7 attack….Seë_Morë