Netanyahu, Rivlin praise Israelis’ unity

President Reuven Rivlin says he completely supports Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon, and IDF Chief of Staff Benny Gantz, adding that the three are handling the Gaza conflict in a responsible manner.

“I would like to take this opportunity and express my full confidence in the abilities of the IDF forces that took into consideration Israel’s security and Israel’s needs,” continues Rivlin, during a meeting with Netanyahu.

“I see some wonderful unity when a storm is upon us and I ask all those who applaud us and say what great unity. Why is it that we are not so united all the time?”

Netanyahu thanks Rivlin, adding that Israel has stood by its word not to negotiate with Hamas under rocket fire.

“We’ve proved that we stand behind that statement,” he says.

“Since Hamas violated the ceasefire on Friday, the IDF has hurt the group very badly,” continues Netanyahu.

The PM asserts that Israel is “determined to achieve the goal of Operation Protective Edge,” which is to assure security and quiet to the residents of Israel for an extended period of time.

“We’ve said since the beginning of the operation, either we will achieve this militarily or politically, or through a combination of the two,” continues the prime minister.

Netanyahu praises the citizens of Israel for their bravery throughout the operation, and calls on the public to stay united as the war goes on.