Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has lashed out at the leaders of France, Britain, and Canada, accusing them of “emboldening” the Palestinian terrorist group Hamas. This comes after the three countries threatened to take “concrete action” if Israel did not halt its ongoing military offensive in the Gaza Strip.
In a fiery statement, Netanyahu condemned the international criticism, claiming that the threats from these Western leaders were effectively aiding and abetting Hamas. “By undermining Israel’s legitimate right to defend itself, the leaders of France, Britain, and Canada are emboldening Hamas and other terrorist groups,” he said.
The tensions flared up after the trio of European and North American nations issued a joint statement earlier this week, expressing “grave concern” over the escalating violence in Gaza. They warned that if Israel did not exercise “restraint” and take steps to protect civilian lives, they would be forced to reevaluate their relationship and consider “concrete actions.”
Netanyahu, however, dismissed these warnings, asserting that Israel would not be intimidated and would continue its military operations until the security of its citizens was guaranteed. “We will not be stopped from defending our people,” he said defiantly. “Those who seek to tie our hands while Hamas fires rockets at our cities are aiding and abetting terrorism.”
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has sparked international outrage, with many countries and organizations condemning the heavy civilian casualties caused by the Israeli bombardment. The latest flare-up began earlier this month after tensions in Jerusalem escalated, leading to clashes between Israeli security forces and Palestinian protesters, and the eventual outbreak of rocket attacks from Gaza and retaliatory airstrikes by Israel.
Despite the growing international pressure, Netanyahu remains steadfast in his position, insisting that Israel has a moral and legal obligation to defend itself against the threat posed by Hamas. The standoff is likely to continue, with the potential for further escalation and a prolonged humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip.
