Netanyahu Warns of Hamas Attempts to Influence Elections

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that Hamas will attempt to challenge Israel with its remaining forces, particularly as the election season approaches, aiming to influence the outcome. "We will thwart such attempts and respond with immense force if they make that mistake," Netanyahu declared at the start of a government meeting. He also vowed that Hamas rule in Gaza would be dismantled, stating, "We will reach everyone and Hamas rule in Gaza will be eradicated."

Netanyahu began the meeting by commemorating those killed on October 7th, including soldiers and civilians murdered in the Gaza border region. He noted that since the attack, Israel has eliminated 4,000 out of the 6,000 Hamas operatives, asserting that none are immune and that Israel will pursue them all.

He further asserted that in the past three years, Israel has become the strongest nation in the Middle East, while its enemies are weaker than ever. Netanyahu also highlighted the revival of the Gaza border region, with 90% of residents returning to their homes and significant construction and rehabilitation underway, which he described as a victory of spirit over evil and Israel over its enemies. He added that a similar positive trend is occurring in the north.

The government meeting itself was moved to an underground location, with ministers reportedly informed of the change shortly before it began at 11:00 AM. During the session, the government was expected to extend the state of emergency in the home front until October 20th.