Netanyahu Reiterates Commitment to Continue War Until Total Destruction of Hamas; We Will Fight with Full Force

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in a press conference in Tel Aviv on Thursday that he opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of any post-war scenario and will continue the war until the complete destruction of Hamas. Netanyahu added, "Israel under my leadership will not settle for anything less than a complete victory over Hamas, and we are on the verge of victory. We will continue to fight with all our strength until we achieve all our goals, including the return of all hostages." He emphasized that the only way to free all hostages is through continued military pressure, stating, "Hamas must be destroyed so that Gaza is no longer a threat to Israel; there should be no entity in this strip that trains, finances, or activates terrorism against the people of Israel." The Prime Minister further addressed Israeli citizens, saying, "We are fighting not only to ensure our security today but also to secure the safety of future generations. Stopping the war before achieving our goals would send a message of weakness that would encourage our enemies to prepare for the next massacre." In another part of his media interview, he noted, "I have told the United States that I oppose the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of any post-war scenario, and I cannot hide the deep disagreements with our allies on this issue." In response, U.S. National Security Advisor John Kirby stated that Gaza should not be reoccupied after the war and that the United States remains committed to a two-state solution. Matthew Miller, spokesperson for the U.S. State Department, also mentioned that Israel now has an opportunity to engage with the idea of forming a Palestinian state, as regional countries are ready to provide security guarantees. He added that despite the disagreements between the U.S. and Israel, "our support for Israel will continue unequivocally."