Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Monday that he believes Israel is nearing victory over Hamas in the Gaza Strip and anticipates the group’s complete defeat.
However, the Israeli army spokesman contradicted this, describing the complete elimination of Hamas as unachievable.
Netanyahu, addressing cadet soldiers after visiting the Gaza Division, highlighted progress in the conflict, particularly in Rafah, stating that they are close to eliminating Hamas’s terrorist forces. He emphasized ongoing operations against remaining Hamas elements.
After nine months of conflict, the Israeli military has secured the release of some hostages amid growing opposition to the war. Casualties among Israeli troops include 647 killed and over 2,000 injured.
Despite claims of Hamas’s defeat, Israeli soldiers have encountered resistance from Hamas fighters in previously claimed territories. Additionally, Hamas has continued launching rockets into southern Israel, despite Israeli military reports of degrading their capabilities.
Reports indicate that Israel has caused over 37,000 deaths in Gaza since October 2023, a matter on which the International Court of Justice has accused Israel of committing genocide.
