Israel Emphasizes Resolve, Unity, and the Need for Broad Support in Gaza Crisis

Israel’s Ambassador to the European Union and NATO, Haim Regev, stated that Israel is prepared to pursue Hamas with unwavering resolve. In a comprehensive interview with Der Spiegel, he urged the European Union to stand firmly with Israel to prevent the spread of terrorism that could threaten European security and stability.
We will not back down, the diplomat asserted; Israel will pursue Hamas to the end until it is dismantled and defeated.
Regev warned that without a united European stance in support of Israel, other actors may sense a lack of consensus and exploit any divisions to advance their own interests.
He cautioned that Europeans should not realize the risks only after terrorists reach their borders. The ambassador emphasized that broad international backing is essential, noting there is no doubt about the need for sustained support as the conflict evolves.
According to Regev, international pressure will mount for Israel to halt its ground operations in Gaza. He argued that clear and strong backing from partners is necessary to sustain any military course while addressing humanitarian concerns and regional stability.
On October 7, Hamas launched a massive barrage of rockets into Israel and declared the start of Operation Al-Aqsa Flood. Thousands of militants crossed into Israeli territory, seized equipment, and held dozens of hostages. In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu declared that Israel was at war and would act decisively to neutralize the threat.
The ensuing Israel Defense Forces operation, codenamed Iron Swords, aimed to cripple Hamas infrastructure and capabilities. Israeli air power targeted a broad array of Hamas sites in the Gaza Strip, joining other security measures. The National Security Council announced steps to tighten the blockade on essential supplies to the Gaza Strip, including water, food, electricity, and fuel. On October 13, Israel informed the United Nations that up to 1.1 million Palestinians might need to relocate to southern Gaza within a 24-hour window ahead of a broader ground campaign.
Earlier, the Israeli president described the surroundings in the region as a civilizational struggle, highlighting the deep-seated tensions that frame the current crisis and the imperative for a coordinated, policy-driven response from regional and international partners.