Netanyahu from the Knesset: We Will Defeat Hamas Militarily and Politically

SadaNews Translation - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu threatened on Monday to defeat the Hamas movement and eliminate it both militarily and politically.

Netanyahu confirmed in a speech during the opening session of the winter session of the Israeli Knesset that his forces still control more than 50 percent of the Gaza Strip.

He addressed the events that occurred in Gaza yesterday, accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire, which led to the death of an officer and a soldier.

Netanyahu stated, as translated by SadaNews: "Hamas immediately felt the weight and power of our arm; we attacked it with 153 tons of bombs," noting that dozens of targets were attacked across the Strip and many Hamas activists, including senior leaders, were killed.

He added: "I made it clear from the beginning that a ceasefire is not a license for Hamas to threaten us; we agreed with Trump to eliminate Hamas's military and governmental influence."

He renewed his commitment to securing the release of all remaining Israeli captives in Gaza, emphasizing that the mission is not complete, and that his government is tirelessly working to accomplish this sacred mission, as he described it.

He boasted that his decision to enter the city of Gaza forced Hamas to reach an agreement and return the captives, asserting that Israel is determined to disarm Hamas, which has been agreed upon by Arab countries.

Addressing the opposition, he said: "If I had listened to the requests of some here, we would not have achieved this achievement, and we are determined to achieve the objectives of the war."

He indicated that Israel still controls Gaza and Hamas, at a time when it has defeated Hezbollah and dealt it severe blows, as well as attacking Iran and delivering fatal strikes.

He also referred to the internal situation, calling on the opposition to reduce tensions, overcome differences, and stop incitement.

He confirmed his intention to complete his term fully by working to pass the budget for 2026.