ALBAWABA- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the Knesset, declaring, "We are in a new war for the existence and future of our state."
He emphasized the ongoing efforts to rescue Israeli hostages held by Hamas and criticized the militant group for obstructing negotiations for a prisoner swap deal.
Netanyahu also underscored Israel's commitment to defeating Hamas and discussed plans for greater security control over Gaza, including the Philadelphi Corridor.
Netanyahu stated that 145 hostages have been successfully returned so far. He added that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the need to intensify pressure on Hamas to abandon its conditions for a prisoner swap.
Netanyahu also addressed recent intelligence leaks, labeling them as highly damaging to Israel's security. He reiterated his calls for a thorough investigation into the source of these leaks.
Amid his speech, tensions escalated as opposition members boycotted the session, and families of Israeli prisoners protested, calling for swift action to secure a swap deal.
Knesset security removed some protesting family members from the audience platform.
In his remarks, Netanyahu hinted at testing Israel's ability to address the Iranian nuclear threat with the support of the new U.S. administration, stressing the strategic alliance between the two nations.
Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also called for full Israeli control over humanitarian aid in Gaza to undermine Hamas's authority.
Reports suggest Netanyahu is contemplating dismissing the head of Shin Bet, further fueling political controversy.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders accused the government of mishandling the crisis and failing to prioritize the hostages' safe return.
