Tel Aviv: Following the confirmation of Israel's successful elimination of the Hamas chief and mastermind behind the October 7 attacks, Yahya Sinwar, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the citizens of Gaza, expressing his belief that the conflict could conclude as early as tomorrow, contingent upon Hamas's agreement to disarm and return the hostages.
In a statement shared on various platforms, Netanyahu conveyed, "Yahya Sinwar has met his demise. He was slain in Rafah by the valiant soldiers of the Israeli Defense Forces. This event marks not the conclusion of the conflict in Gaza, but rather the commencement of its end. To the inhabitants of Gaza, I offer a straightforward message: this conflict can be resolved tomorrow. It can be resolved if Hamas chooses to disarm and return our captives."
The Israeli Defense Forces announced on Thursday that Sinwar, along with two others, had been eliminated in the operation.
Netanyahu disclosed that Hamas was currently holding 101 hostages in Gaza, originating from 23 different nations, including Israel.
"Hamas is in possession of 101 captives in Gaza, who hail from 23 countries, including Israel. Israel is dedicated to ensuring the safe return of all these individuals. Israel will guarantee the security of those who return our captives," he declared.
The Israeli Prime Minister issued a firm warning to those responsible for the harm of Israeli hostages, vowing Israel's unwavering pursuit and justice for them.
"But to those who threaten our captives, I offer another message - Israel will relentlessly pursue and bring you to justice. But to those who threaten our captives, I offer another message - Israel will relentlessly pursue and bring you to justice. I also extend a message of hope to the region's populace - the network of terror established by Iran is crumbling before our very eyes," he stated.
In his address, Netanyahu also emphasized the elimination of key figures within Hezbollah, including Hassan Nasrallah, and declared that the era of terror inflicted by the Iranian regime on its own citizens and those in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen would "come to an end."
"The leadership of Nasrallah, Mohsen, Haniyeh, Deif, and Sinwar have all departed, marking the end of a reign of terror inflicted upon the Iranian populace and the nations of Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen," Netanyahu declared.
He further stated, "It is imperative for those aspiring to a future characterized by prosperity and peace in the Middle East to unite in the pursuit of a brighter future. Together, we possess the strength to confront the forces of darkness and forge a future filled with light and hope for all."
On October 7, 2023, Hamas executed a heinous terror assault on Israel. Approximately 2,500 militants infiltrated Israel from the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of over 1,200 individuals, including citizens from more than 30 countries, and abducting 250 others.
In retaliation, Israel initiated a robust counteroffensive in the Gaza Strip, reaffirming its commitment to "fully eradicate" Hamas.
Nonetheless, the escalating civilian casualties have sparked international alarm regarding the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The United Nations and other major nations have consistently advocated for a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and enhanced support for the civilian population in Gaza.
