Israel's Katz Signals Iran Over Hamas's Failed Strategy

Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz stated that Hamas leaders in Gaza recognize the failure of their policies, citing a recent JMCC poll showing only 9.7% of respondents believe armed struggle is the most effective way to achieve Palestinian goals. Katz presented this as evidence of a shift in sentiment, reflecting an understanding of the current situation.

He outlined Israel's strategy, implemented with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which aims to deny militant groups territory, infrastructure, leadership, and the ability to regroup. This approach has been previously employed in Gaza, Lebanon, and northern Samaria, involving civilian evacuation from combat zones, unimpeded IDF operations, destruction of militant infrastructure, and elimination of commanders.

Katz emphasized that Hamas faces significant strategic repercussions and that Israel will continue its military operations until its defense objectives are met, preventing a recurrence of the October 7th attacks. "We thwarted the plans of the heads of the Palestinian corps in Iran. We will not allow Iran or any other factor to rearm Hamas. The campaign is not over yet. Israel still has important goals regarding Iran and in other directions. We will act with military force and political wisdom to achieve them," Katz declared.

Earlier, Defense Minister Israel Katz indicated that a transition to large-scale combat operations in Gaza could resume soon, with IDF forces prepared to continue their operation against Hamas and implement plans for Palestinian population displacement.