Hamas leaders are ‘legitimate target’ — PM

In response to a question about the strike on Mohammad Deif’s home, Netanyahu says: “The commanders of terror organizations are a legitimate target, of the highest priority… No one is immune.”

He refuses to elaborate.

Asked about the military long-term goals, Netanyahu says: “Who says we gave up on the option of toppling Hamas?”

He says there are lots of options and lots of considerations. When considering how to handle Gaza, he says, one has to consider “who would take control of the territory?”

He says he doesn’t know if the goal of long-term calm can be reached via a diplomatic arrangement. “I don’t recommend giving up on that option” of a more dramatic military offensive against Hamas.

Most Popular
If you’d like to comment, join
The Times of Israel Community.
Join The Times of Israel Community
Commenting is available for paying members of The Times of Israel Community only. Please join our Community to comment and enjoy other Community benefits.
Please use the following structure: example@domain.com
Confirm Mail
Thank you! Now check your email
You are now a member of The Times of Israel Community! We sent you an email with a login link to . Once you're set up, you can start enjoying Community benefits and commenting.