“War Will Be Long & Hard,” Says PM Netanyahu As Israel Launches ‘Second Phase’ Of War Against Hamas

Jerusalem: In the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Israeli forces continue their operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting Hamas positions and tunnels. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced the start of the “second phase” of the war, while international tensions escalate. Here are the latest developments.

1. Netanyahu Announces Second Phase:
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the initiation of the “second phase” of the conflict against Hamas in Gaza, emphasizing the determination to eliminate the enemy both above and below ground. Netanyahu described it as a “long and hard” campaign, asserting Israel’s ultimate victory.

2. Hostage Situation and IDF’s Actions:
Netanyahu expressed Israel’s commitment to bringing back the hostages, labelling their abduction as a “crime against humanity.” He praised the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) as a “moral army” that avoids harming non-combatants and urged north Gaza residents to relocate to safer areas.

3. Casualty Figures:
The Gaza health ministry reported a death toll exceeding 8,000 since the commencement of Israel’s retaliatory offensive. In contrast, Israel has suffered a death toll of 1,400 due to a surprise attack by Hamas on October 7.

4. Diplomatic Tensions with Turkey:
Israel recalled its diplomatic staff from Turkey following Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s condemnation of Israel as a “war criminal” and an “occupier.” Erdogan also criticized Western countries’ support for Israel, affecting ongoing efforts to amend political and economic ties.

5. Families of Hostages Protest:
Families of Israelis held captive by Hamas expressed concerns about the ongoing military campaign, prompting protests in Tel Aviv. Netanyahu assured the use of every available option to secure the hostages’ release after meeting with their relatives.

6. Communications Blackout in Gaza:
Gaza residents endured near-complete communication and internal blackout as Israeli warplanes continued bombing the region. However, reports indicate that services are gradually being restored in the Gaza Strip.

7. Hamas Leader Meets with Hezbollah Ally:
Hamas deputy chief Saleh al-Arouri met with Lebanon’s Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, a Hezbollah ally, in Beirut to discuss the ongoing conflict with Israel and the need for humanitarian aid access to Gaza.

8. Global Pro-Palestinian Protests:
Pro-Palestinian protests erupted in the West Bank and multiple countries, including Jordan, Iraq, France, the UK, Norway, Italy, Switzerland, the USA, Indonesia, and Pakistan. Demonstrators voiced their support for Gaza and criticized Israel’s actions.

9. Ongoing Qatar-Led Negotiations:
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar, continue but at a slower pace after recent escalations. Qatar’s involvement led to the release of four hostages, including an American mother-daughter duo and two Israeli grandmothers.