Asger Risom
Israeli prime minister reaffirms military objectives amid stalled hostage negotiations and national remembrance ceremonies
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to continue military operations in Gaza “until victory,” reaffirming Israel’s commitment to defeating Hamas and securing the release of hostages still held in the Palestinian enclave.
The statement comes as Israel marks Memorial Day, honoring fallen soldiers and victims of terror attacks.
“We Will Complete Our Mission”
In a video message released Tuesday by his office, Netanyahu declared, “In the name of the fallen and in their honor, we will continue our mission until victory, including the return of all our hostages.”
His remarks, cited by HotNews.ro, were made at the start of annual national commemorations ahead of Israel’s 77th Independence Day.
Referring to the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas that triggered the current conflict, Netanyahu vowed that “the life force of our people will triumph over the cursed murderers who attacked us with horrific cruelty.”
A War Entering Its 19th Month
The war between Israel and Hamas has now entered its 19th month, with no clear resolution in sight. Hostage negotiations remain at a standstill, and the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. Netanyahu’s comments signal that the Israeli government is unlikely to ease its military campaign despite growing international pressure.
At 8:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, sirens wailed across Israel, marking a national minute of silence in memory of fallen soldiers and terror victims. The annual ceremony holds deep symbolic importance and often shapes the tone of the country’s security discourse.
Netanyahu’s renewed promise to pursue military goals “until victory” underscores the enduring centrality of the Gaza conflict in Israeli political and public life.