Netanyahu says Israel will intensify strikes on Gaza, deliver blows that Hamas does not expect

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu holds a situational assessment with Defense Minister Gantz, the military chief and other top brass.

“We are in the midst of a campaign,” he says. “Since yesterday afternoon the IDF has carried out hundreds of strikes against Hamas and Islamic Jihad in Gaza. We’ve hit commanders and many high-quality targets.”

He says a decision has been made “to further intensify the severity and pace of the attacks.”

“Hamas will receive blows here that it did not expect,” he says.

Netanyahu tells Israelis: “I know that this also entails patience and a certain sacrifice on your part… Unfortunately, two of our people have been killed. I ask all of you to listen to instructions and strictly follow the directives of IDF Home Front Command. It saves lives.”

The PM also relates to violence by Israeli Arabs: “I would also like to say something to Israeli Arabs. There were wild disturbances here yesterday, which we cannot tolerate, by young hotheads. Our directive is to do everything to maintain law and order. I expect all public leaders, especially leaders of the Arab public, to stand up and condemn these disturbances and do everything to restore the quiet.

“We have given instructions that police units be reinforced with additional Border Police battalions. We will reinforce them as necessary in order to maintain law and order in the State of Israel. Here as well, the cooperation of all Israeli citizens is needed.”