Hamas’ Haniyeh says Netanyahu's wish for a Gaza without Hamas is a delusion
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's call to bar any groups and individuals supporting Hamas, both morally and financially, from entering Gaza received a strong and dismissive response from Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who asserted that the former's wish would remain surreal.
Hamas leader asserted that any post-war plan excluding the Palestinian militant group would be futile. In a broadcast address, he said that any plan for Gaza or the Palestinian cause lacking the involvement of Hamas or the resistance factions is unrealistic.
Haniyeh, however, said he was open to talks for ending the Israeli assault and “putting the Palestinian house in order both in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip”.
Despite differences between the U.S. and Israel, with President Biden expressing concerns over "indiscriminate bombing," the Israeli Defense Minister remains confident that both nations will find a resolution to continue the military operation.
The Biden administration's decision to delay the sale of over 20,000 rifles to Israel raises questions, with sources suggesting concerns about attacks by Israeli settlers on Palestinians in the West Bank as a factor.
As Israel mourns its worst combat losses in six weeks, Hamas executed a complex ambush in Gaza City suburb Shejaiya, resulting in the deaths of 10 Israeli soldiers, including two senior commanders.
UNRWA's Philippe Lazzarini described Gaza's conditions as "a living hell," emphasizing a potential humanitarian crisis amid winter rains and cool weather. The United Nations study estimates the economic cost of the war on Lebanon, Egypt, and Jordan could surpass $10 billion this year, pushing over 230,000 people into poverty.
A pro-Palestinian group briefly hacked Israel's army website, issuing a warning of more attacks, including cyber-attacks. Additionally, the Israeli war cabinet's reported decision against sending the Mossad chief to Qatar for negotiations on a new hostage deal has left families of hostages in shock, demanding an immediate explanation from Prime Minister Netanyahu.
Amid the crisis, President Biden expressed being "moved" after a White House meeting with families of the eight U.S. hostages held by Hamas, joined by Secretary of State Antony Blinken. The meeting was described as "terrific" by Jonathan Dekel-Chen, the father of hostage Sagui Dekel-Chen.
As the conflict continues, the international community remains deeply engaged in efforts to address the escalating crisis in the region. The United States, despite expressing concerns about Israel's military actions, continues to play a pivotal role in diplomatic discussions.
