Daijiworld Media Network - Tel Aviv

Tel Aviv, Aug 10: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday defended his government’s controversial military campaign in Gaza City, insisting that taking full control of the territory is the “speediest and most effective way” to end the war with Hamas.

Speaking at a press conference, Netanyahu said that Hamas’ refusal to surrender left Israel with no other option. “Given Hamas’ refusal to lay down its arms, Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas,” he said, adding that Israeli forces now control 70–75% of Gaza.

His remarks come amid mounting international criticism, including from some of Israel’s closest Western allies, over the scale of the military operation and the growing humanitarian crisis in the region. Netanyahu, however, dismissed the backlash, calling it based on “false claims,” and reiterated that the military was taking extensive steps to minimise civilian harm.

He pointed to the establishment of designated safe zones for civilians, where Israel claims food, water, and medical supplies are being provided.

Netanyahu said that nearly two million tonnes of aid have been allowed into Gaza since the war began, arguing that Israel’s actions refute allegations of a starvation policy.

“If we had a starvation policy, no one in Gaza would have survived after two years of war,” he said, while accusing Hamas of deliberately worsening the humanitarian crisis to manipulate public perception.

The Israeli leader also claimed that Israeli hostages held by Hamas are the only people being deliberately starved in Gaza. He criticised international media coverage, accusing outlets of echoing Hamas propaganda, and described some viral images of starving children as manipulated or fake.

He warned that such “vilification campaigns” historically precede violence against Jews, drawing parallels to past antisemitic massacres.

Netanyahu concluded by saying talks with the United States are ongoing to expand humanitarian aid routes, including ground delivery and airdrops, and expressed hope that international organisations—possibly even the United Nations—might take part in future relief efforts, despite his criticism of the UN’s role in past Gaza interventions.