"Hamas Has Only Two Options...": Israeli Ambassador Discusses Solution to Gaza War
The representative stated that Hamas is not interested in peace, highlighting their choice not to free the hostages. "Hamas consistently turns down the proposals from the American mediator. It simply will not release the hostages. Consequently, Israel has no alternative but to implement military force."
The Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar informed NDTV World that the military operations in Gaza will persist until Hamas is removed. The temporary ceasefire, which lasted for 42 days, has ended, and Hamas has reneged on their commitment to release the hostages taken by the terrorist group. Mr. Azar pointed out that this breach of agreement leaves Israel no choice but to apply military pressure.
"There can be peace today if Hamas complies with the stipulated requirements," Mr. Azar explained, stating that the two primary conditions involve releasing all remaining hostages and ensuring that Hamas cannot arm itself to carry out attacks against Israel.
"Military pressure is effective and yields results," he stated, adding, "It is because of military pressure that 195 out of 254 hostages have been released thus far."
He indicated that Israel will continue its efforts to achieve the desired results, regardless of the implications. "If we cannot find a diplomatic resolution, we will obtain it through military means," he asserted.
"Hamas is controlling the aid being delivered and is reselling it to the Palestinian population. They are attempting to exploit the situation to coerce Israel into submission. This will simply not transpire. It is absurd," he stated, clarifying Tel Aviv's stance.
"The international community members who advocate against military pressure are essentially calling for Israel to yield to a terrorist group that seeks to maintain dominance over Gaza indefinitely. This is unacceptable," he remarked.
The Ambassador noted that "Hamas needs to realize that its authority over the Gaza Strip has come to an end. They must surrender power, regardless of the consequences. Israel is willing to permit them to exit Gaza peacefully, allowing the Palestinian people a chance at a brighter future."
"Hamas now faces only two choices: first, they can return to the negotiating table in a constructive manner and accept the terms, which would halt the military operations. The second option is non-cooperation, leading Israel to consider a ground invasion throughout Gaza aimed at completely eradicating all terrorist factions associated with Hamas and subsequently transferring governance of Gaza to a new moderate Palestinian leadership along with responsible international parties who will aid in fostering peace and prosperity in Gaza."
Currently, Hamas still retains 59 Israeli hostages, which they have yet to release.
