Netanyahu vows continued military pressure on Hamas during Gaza visit
This image grab from handout video footage released by the Israeli Government Press Office (GPO) shows Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu giving a televised address in Jerusalem on January 18, 2025. (AFP Photo)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his government’s commitment to maintaining military pressure on Hamas during a rare visit to northern Gaza on Tuesday, emphasizing that operations would continue until Israeli hostages are released.
“They are striking the enemy and Hamas will continue to suffer blow after blow. We insist that they release our hostages, and we insist on achieving all of our war objectives,” Netanyahu told troops during his visit, according to a statement released by his office.
The prime minister’s appearance in the conflict zone comes as international pressure for a ceasefire has intensified in recent months. However, Netanyahu’s remarks suggest Israel remains focused on its military campaign despite growing humanitarian concerns in the region.
Netanyahu’s visit to northern Gaza represents one of the few times the Israeli leader has personally entered the territory since the conflict began. The highly secured trip allowed him to directly address military personnel on the frontlines.
The conflict has remained at the center of regional tensions, with hostage negotiations mediated by various international parties showing little progress in recent weeks.
