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Full coverage· Security· Updated

Netanyahu Feared High Casualties, Hamas Hostage Tactics Early in War

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initially hesitated on a Gaza ground offensive, fearing thousands of casualties and Hamas using hostages as shields. He also expressed extreme concern over Hezbollah attacks, comparing potential damage to an atomic bomb.

1 newsroom · 1 language · since

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What happened

  1. 01Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu feared "thousands of casualties" from an early Gaza ground offensive.
  2. 02Netanyahu worried Hamas would place hostages on rooftops as human shields during a ground operation.
  3. 03He described potential Hezbollah attacks as causing destruction equivalent to an atomic bomb.
  4. 04The military and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant pressured Netanyahu to approve the Gaza ground offensive.
  5. 05Netanyahu's team is reportedly promoting a narrative of his decisive leadership from the war's start.

Despite these early fears, Netanyahu eventually approved the ground operation after pressure from the military and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

Translated and summarized by baba from N12, the latest report. Read N12’s original

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