Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu participated this evening (Monday) in the Knesset plenary session in the '40 Signatures' debate initiated by the opposition - and addressed the left's claims that the government is not doing enough to return the kidnapped.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu participated this evening (Monday) in a debate in the Knesset plenary initiated by the opposition and addressed its claims that the government is not doing enough to return the kidnapped.
""We are taking significant action. I would like to say with caution that there is some progress, I do not know how long it will take," Netanyahu said. Referring to the talks to return the hostages, "There are three main reasons for this progress: First, Yahya Sinwar is no longer with us. Second, Hamas has lost hope for help from Iran and Hezbollah, which are under pressure. Third, Hamas itself is in distress. We will continue to act in every way until we bring everyone home.".
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The prime minister also referred to Yair Lapad's "screaming speech" at the left-wing demonstration in Tel Aviv on Saturday night, during which he shouted "We are the majority" and threatened internal war: "I understand the pressures on the head of the opposition," Netanyahu quipped. "It's better to keep your cool and collect yourself, and without foaming at the mouth.".
The Prime Minister continued, wondering: "What does war mean? Who are you declaring war on? On your brothers? We are at war on 7 fronts.".
The prime minister spoke about his visit to the Syrian Hermon area last week: "I stood on the crown of Hermon. From the bottomless pit of the beginning of the war, we are climbing to victory, peak after peak," he said. "We are changing the face of the Middle East. Our string of victories is making an impression on the entire world and also among those who seek our lives, who are terrified by the elimination of their leaders.".
Netanyahu addressed the opposition members who interrupted his speech with many interjections: "Go out into the streets, into the squares and talk to people. The vast majority of the people understand that we are in a unique historical period.
""Israel is establishing its deterrence capability. There are other important challenges and missions ahead of us. The Minister of Defense and I have instructed to attack Houthi targets and we have destroyed major terrorist assets. Whoever harms us - we will be harmed, and even if it takes time, we will continue to crush the axis of evil with strength and sophistication.".
Netanyahu also noted that he is working to expand the Abraham Accords: "Today, more than ever, there is a possibility for this. Arab countries see Israel as a regional power and a possible ally, and I intend to take full advantage of this opportunity together with our American friends.".
