Israel signaled a clear aim to release hostages and diminish Hamas influence as military operations resume in the Gaza Strip. The update came from the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, relayed through the Russian state news agency TASS, and it outlined a direct objective: to pursue the war aims guiding Israeli strategy since the latest round of fighting began.
Officials stressed that the government’s priorities focus on freeing captives, dismantling Hamas, and ensuring that Gaza no longer presents a threat to Israeli civilians. The statement underscored a commitment to security guarantees that would prevent any future danger emanating from Gaza into Israel’s heartland.
On December 1, the Israeli Army formally approved the resumption of hostilities in the Gaza Strip. This decision followed accusations by the IDF that Hamas breached a ceasefire, prompting a renewed offensive. Reports indicate that air raid sirens sounded near the Gaza frontier for the first time since November 24, signaling renewed intensity on the ground. The shift marked a return to active combat operations after a declared pause and highlighted the volatile security environment surrounding both sides.
Netanyahu’s leadership has repeatedly framed the conflict in stark terms, declaring that the nation is at war as it pursues the stated aims. The government has reiterated its determination to achieve those goals and to establish durable conditions that would prevent future escalations from Hamas and similar groups. The evolving situation remains a focal point for regional security discussions, with observers noting potential implications for civilians and humanitarian considerations in Gaza.
Throughout the unfolding events, officials have maintained that any continuation of hostilities will be guided by the objective of securing long-term safety for Israeli citizens and a restructuring of Hamas’s capacity to operate within Gaza. As the conflict evolves, regional and international responses are anticipated to shape strategic options for both sides and influence the broader security landscape in the region. Source: TASS