Netanyahu defends Israeli plans to ‘take over’ Gaza
Make us a preferred source
Make us a preferred source on Google
The news: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu defended his plans to carry out a final sweep against Hamas in Gaza, arguing that Israel has "no choice" but to "finish the job" and "defeat" Hamas.
The context: Speaking to the press ahead of an emergency UN Security Council meeting on Israel's plans to expand its military presence in Gaza, Netanyahu said on Sunday that 70-75% Gaza is under Israeli military control, but that Hamas has two remaining strongholds, Gaza City and the "central camps."
On Friday, the Israeli security cabinet instructed the IDF to "dismantle" those two strongholds.
Netanyahu said: “Contrary to false claims, this is the best way to end the war,” adding that before the military moves in, the nearly 1 million civilians in and around Gaza City will be moved further south.
The comments come as Israel comes under intensifying pressure both locally and internationally over Netanyahu’s latest plans to expand operations in the Gaza Strip.
Demonstrations in Tel Aviv on Saturday drew more than 100,000 protestors who demanded an immediate end to Israel’s military campaign according to protest organisers, while almost 500 people were arrested at a Palestine Action demonstration in London.
A joint statement by Australia, the UK and seven allies published on Saturday criticised Israel’s plans, warning that the escalation will "aggravate the catastrophic humanitarian situation" in the territory.
