Israeli Prime Minister’s Bold Claim to Eliminate Palestinian Military Capabilities Amid Controversial Policies and Human Rights Concerns
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that the country is on the brink of eradicating Palestinian military capabilities as part of the ongoing war in Gaza. During a meeting with National Security College trainees in Jerusalem, Netanyahu stated that progress had been made in the fighting in Rafah and that efforts to eliminate the Hamas army were near completion. The Defense Minister called for an additional 10,000 troops to join the army immediately, emphasizing the need for more soldiers to absorb 3,000 ultra-Orthodox recruits.
However, the opposition leader warned of Netanyahu’s intentions to dismiss the attorney general in order to resolve a crisis with the Haredim community. This led to calls for strikes and street protests to demand the government’s dismissal. Meanwhile, negotiations for a settlement on the Lebanese border after the war’s conclusion are being discussed. Reports suggest that the Israeli operation in Rafah is close to ending, with plans to focus on preventing Palestinian factions from regrouping.
The release of Al-Shifa Medical Complex’s director caused controversy among Israeli political and military circles. Dr. Mohammed Abu Salmiya, who was released after more than seven months of detention, accused Israel of torture during his imprisonment. He described the harsh conditions faced by prisoners, highlighting physical and psychological abuse. Abu Salmiya’s release and subsequent statements drew attention to the treatment of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, raising concerns about human rights violations.