What it is about
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has labeled a one-day general strike, where hundreds of thousands of Israelis called for a government deal with Hamas for hostages, as a “disgrace.” He indicates the strike essentially demonstrated support for the Hamas terror group.
Why it matters
This general strike called by the Histadrut labor federation reflects growing anger towards Netanyahu and his administration over their hardline stance in negotiations with Hamas. The strike took place following the discovery of the bodies of six hostages executed by Hamas, and it served as a significant expression of public sentiment.
What Netanyahu said
Prime Minister Netanyahu was quoted during a cabinet meeting as saying, “It’s telling Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar — you murdered six people. Here, we support you.” He emphasized that Israel plans to exact a price from Hamas for these murders. Netanyahu highlighted the strategic significance of not withdrawing from the Gaza-Egypt border corridor, referring to it as Hamas’s “lifeline” and asserting it is essential for Israel’s security, both in the short and long term.
The government’s position
Netanyahu has ordered preparations for a strong response to Hamas over the execution of the hostages within 48 hours. Additionally, he defended the importance of maintaining an Israeli military presence along the Gaza-Egypt border to prevent Hamas from smuggling in arms and further endangering Israeli lives.
Conflict within the administration
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant reportedly opposed Netanyahu’s stance on maintaining the Gaza-Egypt border presence, calling it “an unnecessary constraint.” However, Netanyahu insists that leaving the corridor’s control would severely impact Israel’s strategic security capabilities and embolden Hamas.
Background context
Since Hamas initiated a brutal attack on Israel on October 7, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli deaths, the Israeli government has taken a firm stance on dismantling Hamas’s military and governance infrastructure. The incident involved kidnappings, acts of brutality, and widespread terror, sparking international outrage and solidifying Israel’s resolve to neutralize the threat from Hamas.
In the aftermath, approximately 97 hostages remain in Gaza with ongoing negotiations and military operations aimed at their recovery. Netanyahu maintains that halting aid and reinforcing military efforts are crucial to cut Hamas’s lifeline and prevent any future rearming and attacks.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.