Amid mounting international criticism of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israeli Member of Parliament Sharren Haskel, representing the National Unity Party, issued a defiant response, emphasising the importance of Israel’s goal to eradicate Hamas. Haskel stated that the leadership of Hamas has consistently expressed intentions to persecute and harm Jews, making the conflict a matter of self-defence for Israel.
“Their leadership have said time and time again that they will always persecute the Jews and try to murder them if they have any kind of opportunity,” said Haskel, justifying Israel’s actions as a means to defend its children and ensure peace within the country.
The comments come in the wake of US President Joe Biden expressing concern over Israel’s “indiscriminate bombing” in Gaza and growing global support for a ceasefire. White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan is set to visit Israel, where discussions with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the Israeli war cabinet are expected to address the conduct of the conflict.
President Biden’s criticism and calls for more targeted strikes have fueled speculation about a potential shift in Israel’s military strategy. Sullivan, on his diplomatic tour, also held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aiming to restart negotiations for normalising relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia.
As international pressure mounts for a ceasefire, Prime Minister Netanyahu remains resolute, telling soldiers in Gaza, “We’re continuing until Hamas is annihilated… Nothing will stop us.” The conflict has resulted in casualties, with the Gaza health ministry, controlled by Hamas, reporting at least 19 people killed in Israeli airstrikes on Thursday morning.
Kiki Garba
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