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In a resolute address to the US Congress, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his unwavering commitment to achieving 'total victory' against Hamas in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This was Netanyahu's fourth speech to the Joint Session of Congress, and he utilized the platform to not only outline his vision for a post-war Gaza but also to condemn those who oppose Israel's military actions. Notably, he labeled American critics of the Israel-Gaza war as 'idiots,' a stark statement that highlights the deep divisions within the international community regarding the conflict.
Netanyahu's call for 'total victory' carries significant weight. He outlined a two-pronged approach: a demand for Hamas to 'surrender, disarm, and return all the hostages,' which he suggested could bring an immediate end to the war, and a threat to continue fighting until Hamas's military capabilities are completely dismantled and all hostages are returned. This uncompromising stance underscores the high stakes of the conflict and the determination of the Israeli government to achieve a decisive outcome. His vision for a postwar Gaza, while not detailed in specifics, calls for a demilitarized and deradicalized territory under civilian Palestinian administration. He stressed that while Israel would not seek to resettle Gaza, it would maintain a controlling presence to prevent the resurgence of terrorism and ensure Gaza poses no further threat to Israel.
A defining aspect of Netanyahu's speech was his unwavering focus on Iran as the root cause of instability and violence in the Middle East. He asserted that Iran is 'virtually behind all the terrorism, all the turmoil, all the chaos, all the killing,' portraying the nation as a malevolent force intent on imposing radical Islam on the world. Netanyahu went on to characterize Israel as merely a 'tool' in Iran's broader strategy, a strategy he claims is ultimately aimed at America. His speech painted a stark picture of a clash between 'barbarism and civilization,' with Iran representing the former and America and its allies representing the latter. The message was clear: to defeat this 'axis of terror,' the US and Israel must stand together in unwavering unity.
Source: Netanyahu Vows 'Total Victory' In Gaza During US Congress Address