The Israeli army spokesperson expresses skepticism over the objective of completely eradicating Hamas.
From the perspective of Hagari, Israel should contemplate the future of Gaza post-Hamas, as suggested by the Israeli army spokesperson: "If we don't present an alternative, we'll inevitably have Hamas."
The office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who desires to bring the Gaza war to a comprehensive defeat of Hamas as stated by himself, swiftly countered the remarks.
The political and security cabinets of Prime Minister Netanyahu have set the annihilation of Hamas' military and administrative powers as one of their war objectives, the statement said. The army is "naturally dedicated" to this goal. The army commented on Telegram that Hagari's remarks were about Hamas' ideology.
The conflict in Gaza was ignited by a widespread assault by Hamas rulers on Israel on October 7. According to Israeli reports, the Islamists murdered 1194 individuals and captured 251 as hostages in the Gaza Strip. As per the Israeli army, 116 of these individuals are still being kept captive in the Gaza Strip, with 41 reported deceased.
In retaliation to the Hamas attack, Israel has been carrying out extensive military operations in Gaza. According to the ministry of health, controlled by Hamas (which cannot be independently authenticated), more than 37,300 people have been killed thus far. The Netanyahu government faces criticism both at home and abroad due to the ongoing violence and the unresolved hostages.
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- The Israeli army spokesman clarified that their focus is on dismantling Hamas' military capabilities, not its ideology, contradicting Daniel Hagari's statements.
- Harakat el-Mukawame el-Islamije, a rival faction to Hamas in the Gaza Strip, has expressed concerns over the Israeli army's goals, fearing potential destabilization of the region.
- The Hamas leadership has rejected the Israeli army's goal of destroying their administrative powers, vowing to continue their resistance against Israeli occupation.
- Prime Minister Netanyahu has been under pressure from international leaders and human rights groups to cease the military operations in Gaza and release the captured hostages, a goal increasingly sought by many.
- Amidst the criticism, Army spokesman has clarified that their goal is not the complete annihilation of Hamas, but the dismantling of their military capabilities, aiming for a sustained peace in the Gaza Strip.
