Netanyahu Reveals Pressure to Withdraw from Gaza for Hostages; Defense Minister Warns Iran War Could Start Any Day

In a dramatic multi-front situation assessment, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disclosed intense pressure during the ongoing conflict to withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza in exchange for the release of all hostages. Netanyahu revealed that some urged him to accept Hamas's terms, which demanded a full Israeli pullout from Gaza to secure the hostages' freedom. He rejected this, calling it a "terrible defeat" rather than a victory, emphasizing that the only viable strategy combines strong military pressure with diplomatic efforts, particularly involving the United States.

Netanyahu warned that accepting Hamas's proposal would have allowed key adversaries like Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh, Hezbollah's Hassan Nasrallah, Iran's Qasem Soleimani, and Syrian President Bashar al-Assad to consolidate power, which he described as a potential disaster. He affirmed confidence in Israel's ability to rescue the hostages through the chosen military approach.

Simultaneously, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant issued a stark warning about the fragile security situation, stating that Israel could be at war with Iran "as soon as tomorrow." Gallant outlined Israel's policy of responding with overwhelming force if Iran launches missile attacks, potentially within two days. He stressed that while Israel does not wish to disrupt U.S. diplomatic efforts led by then-President Trump, it will not compromise on defense, signaling readiness for a third war with Iran if attacked.

These statements come amid ongoing tensions with Iran and concerns that the Iranian front could ignite at any moment. Gallant's message to Tehran was clear: Israel is prepared to respond decisively to any aggression, even if it escalates into a broad conflict.