Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Israel has vowed to continue its military operations in Gaza until Hamas is completely eradicated, Israeli Ambassador Reuven Azar stated today. He accused the militant group of violating the 42-day ceasefire agreement by refusing to release hostages, leaving Israel with no alternative but to intensify its military campaign.
Hamas Must Choose: Diplomacy or War
Azar emphasized that Hamas has only two options: either agree to the conditions for peace or face relentless military action. “Hamas can ensure immediate peace by releasing all hostages and agreeing never to rearm itself for future attacks,” he explained.
However, he accused the group of repeatedly rejecting mediation efforts. “Despite multiple proposals from the United States, Hamas refuses to comply. Israel now has no choice but to escalate military pressure,” he added.
Military Action Will Continue Until Objectives Are Met
The Israeli envoy defended the use of force, stating that military pressure had already led to the release of 195 out of 254 hostages. “Military action is effective, and we will continue using it until we achieve our goal—a Gaza free from terrorism,” he said.
He also reiterated that the United States fully supports Israel’s mission to eliminate Hamas’ control over Gaza. “If diplomacy fails, military intervention will be the only way forward,” he asserted.
Rejecting Global Criticism
Addressing international concerns over Israel’s actions, Azar dismissed criticism, saying, “Condemnations will not change the reality. Hamas is holding the Palestinian population hostage while also refusing to release Israeli captives.”
He further accused Hamas of hoarding humanitarian aid meant for civilians, stating, “Instead of distributing the aid, they are selling it to Palestinians for their own benefit. Their strategy is to pressure Israel into surrendering, which will never happen.”
Calls for International Pressure on Hamas
The ambassador urged the global community to focus on removing Hamas from power instead of criticizing Israel. “The world should support efforts to remove Hamas’ leadership from Gaza and establish a responsible Palestinian administration that can rebuild the region,” he suggested.
He firmly rejected calls to halt military operations, arguing that it would allow Hamas to maintain control over Gaza indefinitely. “No nation would allow a terrorist organization to dictate its future,” he remarked.
Israel’s Next Move: A Full-Scale Ground Invasion?
Azar outlined two clear choices for Hamas:
1. Engage in diplomatic talks – Hamas must return to negotiations, release hostages, and agree to cease future attacks. This would lead to an immediate end to Israeli military operations.
2. Face a full-scale military invasion – If Hamas refuses to cooperate, Israel will launch an extensive ground offensive to eliminate all terrorist elements and transfer governance to a new Palestinian leadership, with international assistance ensuring stability.
“Israel has the strength and determination to pursue either course. However, we prefer a peaceful resolution through dialogue. The second option will only be pursued if Hamas remains defiant,” he warned.
Religious Freedom and Israel’s Stand
Azar emphasized that Israel remains committed to religious freedom, particularly during Ramadan. “Every day, over 75,000 Muslims freely visit Jerusalem for prayers. Israel respects all religions, but we will never tolerate terrorism,” he concluded.
At present, Hamas still holds 59 Israeli hostages and has refused to release them, further escalating tensions in the region.
