A top spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has publicly contradicted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's stance on the complete destruction of Hamas. Spokesman Daniel Hagari stated during a television appearance that the complete eradication of Hamas is not achievable, diverging from Netanyahu's persistent position that the military campaign in Gaza must continue until Hamas is entirely dismantled.
Hagari emphasized, 'The idea that we can destroy Hamas or make Hamas disappear is misleading to the public. What we can do is grow something different, something to replace it. The politicians will decide.'
In response, Netanyahu's office promptly refuted Hagari's remarks, reiterating that the IDF's objective remains the termination of Hamas.
Netanyahu has been facing increasing opposition both domestically and internationally. His political rival, Benny Gantz, resigned from Netanyahu's war council in protest, criticizing the prime minister's handling of the conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu subsequently disbanded the council altogether.
The Biden administration has also intensified its criticism of Netanyahu, withholding certain military aid intended for Israel. Netanyahu publicly criticized the Biden administration for this action, deeming it 'inconceivable.' Tensions between the two administrations have escalated as a result.
President Biden has urged Netanyahu to accept a cease-fire agreement proposed earlier, but Hamas has rejected specific terms of the agreement.
