Netanyahu: "I Choose Victory Over Bad PR"... Israeli PM Vows to Continue War in Gaza, Claims 100,000 Palestinians Have Left

In a determined address delivered during a government meeting held at a secure, secret location, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed that his primary goal is to achieve victory in the ongoing war in Gaza, even at the cost of Israel's international standing. "If I am forced to choose between victory over our enemies and bad PR against us, I will choose victory over our enemies, not the other way around," Netanyahu stated unequivocally. He added that he does not want to read "articles that point to our defeat" or a "good obituary in the world media," emphasizing that his choice is "victory."

Netanyahu explained that Israeli forces are "deepening the military maneuver" on the outskirts and within Gaza City. He noted that the army is targeting "elite terrorists who played a prominent role in the October 7 massacre," adding that eliminating these commanders sends a clear message that Israel will pursue everyone involved in the attack. He also mentioned that forces are working to destroy "terrorist infrastructure" to eliminate "criminal terrorist leaders."

Regarding the humanitarian situation, Netanyahu claimed that Israel has established a new "humanitarian zone" allowing civilians to leave Gaza and receive aid. He stated that approximately 100,000 people have left Gaza so far, accusing Hamas of doing its "utmost to prevent them from leaving" and using them as "human shields." He stressed that Israel's objective is to "focus on the terrorists themselves and allow the civilian population to leave."

Netanyahu also addressed the recent video released by Hamas showing hostages Alon Ohel and Gai Gilboa Dalah, calling it "cruel and vile." He mentioned that he spoke at length with their families, assuring them of his support and that of the Israeli people. He maintained that the majority of Israelis are steadfast in the face of Hamas's "psychological terrorism."

Concluding his remarks, Netanyahu linked Israel's efforts in Gaza to the broader objective of "crushing the chokehold of the Iranian axis," which he described as aiming to "destroy the State of Israel." He said that dismantling this axis would remove another "existential threat" to Israel.