By: Kamal Yalwa
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly condemned the leaders of the United Kingdom, Canada, and France following their threats to impose targeted sanctions over Israel’s renewed military offensive in Gaza, known as Operation Gideon’s Chariots.
In a fiery statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Netanyahu accused the Western leaders of effectively rewarding Hamas by calling for an end to Israel’s military operations.
“By demanding that Israel end an existential defensive war before Hamas terrorists are eliminated on our borders, and by demanding the establishment of a Palestinian state – leaders in London, Ottawa and Paris are placing a huge reward for the October 7 annihilation attack on Israel and inviting further atrocities,” Netanyahu wrote.
He reiterated Israel’s stance that the conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, following a deadly Hamas-led incursion that killed over 1,200 people and led to the abduction of more than 250 hostages, cannot end until Hamas is completely dismantled.
“The war could end tomorrow – if all the hostages are returned, Hamas lays down its arms, its murderous leaders are exiled, and the Gaza Strip is demobilized. No country can expect less – and certainly not Israel.”
Netanyahu described the conflict as a battle between “civilisation and barbarism,” vowing that Israel would continue its operations in Gaza “by just means – until complete victory is achieved.”
He also expressed support for former U.S. President Donald Trump’s vision for peace in the region and called on European leaders to adopt the same position.
The sharp rebuke comes amid rising international criticism of Israel’s latest offensive, which has led to significant casualties and humanitarian concerns in Gaza. The UK, Canada, and France have warned of potential sanctions if the operation continues without regard for civilian lives.
Despite growing global pressure, Netanyahu has remained steadfast, asserting Israel’s right to self-defense and the need to eliminate Hamas from the Gaza Strip completely.
