THREAD: israeli government

DRONE STRIKE Threatens Israel: Netanyahu’s Defiant Response

20 October 2024 — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned Hezbollah after an alleged assassination attempt on him and his wife. He called it a “grave mistake” and vowed that it would not deter Israel from its objectives. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel will continue its fight against enemies to secure its future.

Netanyahu issued a stern warning to Iran and the “Axis of Resistance,” including Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis. He stated that anyone attempting to harm Israeli citizens would face severe consequences. The prime minister reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to achieving its war goals following the Oct. 7 attack, aiming for long-term regional security changes.

He declared that Israel will eliminate terrorists and those who support them while ensuring hostages’ return from Gaza. Netanyahu also promised safety for citizens living on the northern border with Lebanon. “Together, we will fight, and with God’s help – together, we will win,” he concluded in his statement.

UK SUSPENDS ARMS Exports To Israel: Critics Fear Hamas Empowered

03 September 2024 — The new leftist UK government has suspended several weapons export licenses to Israel. Despite Labour leadership claiming the decision was apolitical, critics argue it emboldens Hamas. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned the move as “shameful,” noting British citizens were among those killed and held hostage by Hamas.

British Jews, including Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis, criticized the suspension, arguing it falsely portrays Israel as violating International Humanitarian Law. They emphasized the need for solidarity against common threats from Iran and its proxies. The Board of Deputies of British Jews expressed “deep concern,” warning that the decision sends a dangerous message to terrorists.

UK Defence Minister John Healey defended the action as adherence to international law, not political bias. He informed Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant before making the announcement public. Critics remain unconvinced, viewing this as a misguided step during Israel’s critical time of need.

ISRAEL WARNS of Iranian Aggression Amid US Cease-Fire Talks

27 August 2024 — Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that “Iran’s aggression has reached an all-time high” during a meeting with U.S. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown on Monday. Gallant emphasized the need for cooperation to counter threats from Iran-backed Hamas and Hezbollah, highlighting Israel’s strategic position. The meeting also included IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi and took place in Tel Aviv.

Despite U.S.-led efforts to broker a cease-fire deal with Hamas, no agreement has been reached as long as Israeli forces remain in Gaza security corridors. Gallant reiterated Israel’s goals: dismantling Hamas, securing the return of hostages taken on Oct. 7, and improving security along the northern border for community safety.

Since Oct. 7, the conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with Gaza’s Health Ministry claiming around 40,000 Palestinian deaths without distinguishing between civilians and terrorists killed by Israeli forces since then have also suffered losses: nearly 700 soldiers and about 1,200 civilians have been killed following Hamas attacks on Israel

ISRAEL RESCUES Hostages in Daring Gaza Operation

08 June 2024 — Israel conducted its largest hostage rescue operation since the latest conflict with Hamas began, freeing four individuals from central Gaza. The military raid in Nuseirat resulted in the rescue of Noa Argamani, Almog Meir Jan, Andrey Kozlov, and Shlomi Ziv. All hostages were taken for medical checks and reunited with their families after 246 days in captivity.

The operation was marked by heavy air and ground assaults, leading to significant casualties among Palestinians. At least 94 Palestinians were reported dead, including children, with over 100 wounded brought to local hospitals. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant praised the mission as “daring” and “brilliantly executed.”

Noa Argamani’s abduction had drawn widespread attention due to a video showing her screaming for her life during her capture at a music festival. Her mother’s plea for her release had also garnered significant media coverage. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue fighting until all hostages are freed.

The aftermath saw nearly 100 Palestinian bodies taken to Al-Aqsa Hospital amid ongoing military activity in the area. AP reporters witnessed the grim scene as smoke rose and armored vehicles moved through Nuseirat and Deir al-Balah areas. The conflict continues to exact a heavy toll on both sides as Israel remains committed to securing its citizens from terrorist threats.

NETANYAHU ADMITS "Tragic Mistake" In Israeli Strike: Outrage Grows

29 May 2024 — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted a “tragic mistake” in an Israeli strike on Rafah, Gaza, that killed at least 45 displaced Palestinians. This incident has intensified international criticism of Israel’s war with Hamas. Even Israel’s closest allies have expressed outrage over the civilian deaths.

Israel claims adherence to international law but faces scrutiny from global courts, one of which demanded a halt to the Rafah offensive last week. The military initially reported targeting a Hamas compound and killing two senior militants but later opened an investigation into civilian deaths as more details emerged.

Sunday night’s attack is among the deadliest in the conflict, pushing the Palestinian death toll above 36,000 according to Gaza Health Ministry figures. Netanyahu assured that Israel is investigating and will conclude how this error occurred as part of its policy to avoid harming civilians.

Mohammed Abuassa described rescuers pulling out people in horrific conditions from the camp fire aftermath in Tel al-Sultan neighborhood. “We pulled out children who were in pieces,” he said, highlighting the devastating impact on both young and elderly victims alike.

OUTRAGE Over ICC’S Arrest Warrants for Israeli and Hamas Officials

23 May 2024 — The International Criminal Court (ICC) faces backlash for considering arrest warrants against Israeli and Hamas officials. Critics argue that rogue nations often escape scrutiny while the ICC targets Israel. “It’s spent over $2 billion. It’s been really ineffective,” said Orde Kittrie, a senior fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

Kittrie emphasized that Israel is not an ICC member state and polices its own alleged violations, making the court’s actions unjustified. “It’s obviously, totally politically driven,” he added, describing it as a political vendetta masquerading as legal proceedings.

Former Israeli leaders have called for dismantling the ICC, labeling it a “political tool.” The court’s prosecutor Karim Khan announced plans to request arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, along with Hamas leaders Yahya Sinwar and Ismail Haniyeh.

ISRAEL DEFIES US Warnings, Ramps Up Military Strike in Gaza’s Rafah

12 May 2024 — Israel has escalated its military actions in Rafah, Gaza, despite U.S. cautions. The Israeli military ordered tens of thousands to leave the area immediately. Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari confirmed that the operations targeted and eliminated numerous militants. This aggressive stance persists even amid international concerns about rising civilian casualties and disruptions to humanitarian aid efforts.

Global protests have ignited as Israel alleges Hamas militants are consolidating in northern Gaza following seven months of ongoing conflict. The United Nations warns that intensifying military activities in Rafah might severely impact humanitarian initiatives and increase civilian fatalities. The closure of the Rafah border crossing complicates aid delivery, heightening regional tensions further.

President Joe Biden has explicitly denied supplying offensive weaponry for operations in Rafah, pointing to credible evidence that Israel might be violating international laws designed to protect civilians during conflict situations. On the other hand, Israeli authorities maintain they adhere strictly to these laws and have implemented advanced warning systems to reduce civilian casualties before launching operations

The crisis deepens as over 1.4 million Palestinians find themselves displaced within Rafah’s confines due to recent evacuations moving populations into areas already heavily affected by conflict. Aid organizations are overwhelmed trying to manage under these challenging circumstances.

ISRAEL Stands Firm: CEASE-Fire Talks with Hamas HIT a Wall

05 May 2024 — The latest cease-fire talks in Cairo between Israel and Hamas have ended without any agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is standing firm against global pressure to stop military actions, calling Hamas’s demands “extreme.” Defense Minister Yoav Gallant accused Hamas of not being serious about peace and hinted that Israel might step up its military actions in Gaza soon.

During the discussions, Hamas emphasized that stopping Israeli aggression is their top priority. Despite some initial signs of progress, the situation remains tense with ongoing threats to peace efforts. Notably, Israel did not send a delegation to the recent negotiations, while Hamas consulted with intermediaries in Qatar before returning to Cairo for more talks.

In another development, Israel has shut down Al Jazeera’s local offices, accusing the network of anti-Israel incitement. This action has drawn attention from Netanyahu’s government but does not affect Al Jazeera’s operations in Gaza or the West Bank. Meanwhile, CIA chief William Burns plans to meet with regional leaders to try and mediate the conflict.

The closure of Al Jazeera’s offices and upcoming meetings by CIA chief William Burns highlight the complex dynamics at play as international actors seek ways to stabilize the region amidst ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas.

ISRAELI HOSTAGES & Biden’s Diplomatic Disaster: The Shocking Truth Unveiled

29 March 2024 — 134 Israeli hostages are reportedly held in Rafah, leading Israel to ponder negotiations for their freedom. This situation arises despite President Joe Biden’s public caution against Israel entering Rafah. He voiced concerns for Palestinian civilians taking shelter there. Intriguingly, it appears that the welfare of these civilians falls on Israel, not Hamas — the faction that has ruled Gaza for nearly two decades and sparked the war on October 7.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu speculated in mid-February that the war would end within 'weeks’ once an operation in Rafah started. However, persistent hesitation has worsened conditions in Gaza. On Monday, Biden seemingly made Israel’s decision easier by siding with Russia and China at the United Nations Security Council.

Biden approved a resolution separating a ceasefire from a hostage release agreement. As a result, Hamas returned to its original demand of ending the war before freeing any more hostages. Many view this action by Biden as a significant misstep and an abandonment of Israel.

Some theorize that this disagreement may secretly satisfy the Biden administration as it allows them to publicly resist an Israeli operation while discreetly maintaining arms supply. If true, this would let them profit from an Israeli triumph over Iran-backed Hamas without diplomatic or political repercussions.

NETANYAHU DEFIES Global Outrage, Sets Sights on Rafah Invasion

16 March 2024 — Despite international outcry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is determined to press ahead with plans to invade Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip. This decision comes in the face of protests from the United States and other world powers.

The Israeli Defense Force is slated to lead this operation as part of broader military initiatives in the region. This move will proceed even if there’s a potential cease-fire agreement with Hamas, Netanyahu’s office confirmed on Friday.

Alongside these invasion plans, an Israeli delegation is preparing for a trip to Doha. Their mission? To negotiate for hostage release. But before they can proceed, they need full consensus from the security cabinet.

The announcement has heightened tensions as Palestinians gather for Ramadan prayers at Al-Farouq Mosque ruins in Rafah — a site ravaged by ongoing conflicts between Israel and militant group Hamas.

Biden WARNED: Israeli Defense Leaders URGE Against Recognizing Palestinian State

23 February 2024 — A group of Israeli defense and security leaders have issued a stern warning to President Biden. Their message is clear — do not recognize a Palestinian state. They believe this move could endanger Israel’s existence and indirectly support regimes known for sponsoring terrorism, such as Iran and Russia.

The Israel Defense and Security Forum (IDSF) sent this urgent letter on February 19th. They caution that recognizing Palestine would be interpreted as rewarding violent actions by Hamas, global terrorist organizations, Iran, and other rogue states.

Brigadier General Amir Avivi, founder of the IDSF, spoke to Fox News Digital about the situation. He stressed that it’s crucial for the U.S., at this juncture, to stand by its key ally in the Middle East and uphold American interests in the region.

In a rare display of consensus on Wednesday, Israel’s Knesset (parliament) unanimously dismissed foreign pressures to single-handedly recognize a Palestinian state.

ISRAELI FORCES Strike: Hostage Intelligence Sparks Daring Hospital Raid

15 February 2024 — Israeli special forces executed a targeted operation at the largest hospital in southern Gaza. The action was prompted by reliable intelligence suggesting that Hamas was using the facility to harbor Israeli hostages. Described as a “limited” operation by IDF spokesman Daniel Hagari, it did not necessitate the forceful evacuation of medical staff or patients.

It remains uncertain if any remains were discovered, but Israel has confirmed the apprehension of several Hamas suspects operating within the hospital’s premises. Earlier this week, IDF officially reached out to the director of Nasser Medical Center, demanding an immediate cessation of all Hamas terrorist activities within its walls and insisting on the expulsion of all terrorists present.

The IDF’s statement during this operation disclosed that their intelligence originated from multiple sources including freed hostages. They suggested that not just Nasser Hospital but also Shifa Hospital, Rantisi Hospital, Al Amal Hospital and others across Gaza have been systematically exploited by Hamas as terror bases.

Last month saw a released hostage publicly declare that she along with over two dozen other captives had been held in Nasser Hospital. This raid occurs amidst heightened tensions in the region following recent Israeli airstrikes carried out in Lebanon after a lethal Hezbollah attack.

WHITE HOUSE Pleads: Israel, Restrain Your Gaza Offensive

15 January 2024 — The White House is urging Israel to temper its military offensive in the Gaza Strip. This plea comes as Israeli leaders maintain their resolve towards their operation against Hamas, Gaza’s ruling militant group. The discord between these close allies has become increasingly evident on the 100th day of war.

In response to a Hezbollah missile attack that claimed two Israeli lives, Israeli warplanes have struck back at Lebanon. This recent exchange has stoked fears that the current violence in Gaza could spark a wider conflict across the region.

The war, sparked by an unprecedented Hamas attack on October 7th, has led to nearly 24,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction throughout Gaza. It’s believed that roughly 85% of Gaza’s 2.3 million inhabitants have been forced out of their homes with a quarter facing potential starvation.

John Kirby, spokesman for the White House National Security Council spoke on CBS about ongoing discussions with Israel regarding transitioning to 'low-intensity operations’ within Gaza. Despite this dialogue, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu remains steadfast in his mission to dismantle Hamas and secure freedom for over 100 hostages still held captive.

EMERGENCY Weapons Sale to Israel: BIDEN’S Bold Move Amidst Foreign Aid Stalemate

31 December 2023 — Once again, the Biden administration has greenlit an emergency sale of weapons to Israel. The State Department made this announcement on Friday, stating that the move is designed to support Israel in its ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken notified Congress about a second emergency determination that approves over $147.5 million in equipment sales. These sales encompass necessary components for 155 mm shells previously bought by Israel, including fuses, charges, and primers.

This decision was executed under an emergency provision of the Arms Export Control Act. This provision enables the State Department to sidestep Congress’ review role concerning foreign military sales. Interestingly enough, this move coincides with President Joe Biden’s request for nearly $106 billion in aid for countries like Israel and Ukraine being held up due to border security management debates.

“The United States remains dedicated to ensuring the security of Israel against threats it encounters,” declared the department.

ISRAEL’S WAR: Allies Demand Cease-Fire as Civilian Deaths Soar

18 December 2023 — Israel is under increasing pressure from European allies to halt its ongoing 10-week conflict in Gaza. The calls for a cease-fire come in the wake of several shootings, including the unintended killing of three Israeli hostages. These incidents have ignited global unease about Israel’s conduct during the war and sparked protests within its borders. Citizens are urging their government to return to negotiations with Hamas.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin is slated for a visit on Monday, adding more weight to the call for Israel to reduce major combat operations. While the U.S. continues to provide vital military and diplomatic support, it has voiced growing concern over civilian casualties resulting from this conflict. The war has led to thousands of civilian deaths and displaced an estimated 90% of Gaza’s population from their homes.

In response, Israel has permitted U.N aid trucks access into Gaza via a second entry point starting Sunday. However, Palestinians desperate for aid swarmed these trucks at the Rafah crossing with Egypt causing some trucks to halt prematurely as supplies were hastily taken away by locals.

The U.N agency responsible for Palestinian refugees estimates that over 60% of Gaza’s infrastructure has been decimated due to this war,“ reports state, ”Telecom services are slowly coming back online after a four-day blackout which further hindered rescue efforts and aid delivery.

ISRAEL REGRETS Gaza Detainee Treatment: A Shocking Revelation of Military Conduct

13 December 2023 — Israel’s government has conceded its misstep in the treatment and subsequent public display of images showing Palestinian men, stripped to their underwear, after being detained by Israeli military in Gaza. These recently surfaced online photos disclose dozens of disrobed detainees, sparking significant global scrutiny.

On Wednesday, State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller confirmed that Israel has recognized its mistake. He relayed Israel’s assurance that such pictures will not be captured or circulated in the future. If detainees are searched, they will promptly receive their clothes back.

Israeli officials defended these actions by explaining that all males of military age found in evacuated zones were held to ensure they weren’t Hamas members. They were disrobed to check for hidden explosive devices — a tactic frequently employed by Hamas during previous conflicts. However, Mark Regev, a senior adviser to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, assured on MSNBC on Monday that measures are being implemented to avoid such incidents from recurring.

Regev also highlighted ongoing efforts to identify who took and disseminated the contentious photo online. This episode has prompted inquiries about Israel’s detainee treatment and its strategies for handling potential threats from Hamas operatives concealed among civilians.

ISRAEL CRUSHES Hamas: Unearths Valuable Intel Amidst Terrorist Takedown

03 November 2023 — Israel successfully seized control of a Hamas stronghold in Jabaliya, eliminating around 50 terrorists during the operation. This strategic move coincided with an airstrike on a high-ranking Hamas commander, leading to the collapse of several underground tunnels.

The global community has criticized Israel for allegedly targeting a “refugee camp”. However, these so-called camps are frequently utilized by Hamas for their operations. These are not newly established tent cities for displaced individuals but dense residential areas settled by Palestinian refugees following the Arab-Israeli wars in 1948 and 1967.

Upon capturing the stronghold, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) discovered crucial intelligence data. This includes operational orders and personal details of Hamas commanders and terrorists. The IDF is currently analyzing this information to aid in future counter-terrorism efforts.

The IDF has publicized photos displaying some of the materials uncovered during their operation within the stronghold.

REP VAN Orden’s Heroic Journey in Israel: The Truth Behind the Frontlines

01 November 2023 — On a solo mission, Rep. Van Orden faced the stark realities confronting Israelis daily. His guide was Rabbi David Katz, head of the Israel Heritage Foundation (IHF). This nonprofit works tirelessly to reinforce Israel’s sovereignty and fight antisemitism.

The pair toured significant locations such as Magen David Adom, Israel’s emergency medical service; Yad Vashem, the official Holocaust Museum; and the historic Western Wall. Rabbi Katz shared a moving story about a young soldier named Danny whose life was irrevocably changed after an attack by Hamas terrorists.

Danny was left helpless for over eight hours after being shot in the foot by a Hamas terrorist. By the time he reached hospital, his foot had to be amputated due to oxygen deprivation and blood loss.

Rep. Van Orden expressed his admiration for Magen David Adom (MDA) during his visit. He personally thanked each dispatcher and even donated blood, demonstrating his dedication to positively impacting MDA and IDF.

ISRAEL RISES: Demands Vatican’s Unequivocal Condemnation of Hamas Terrorism

16 October 2023 — Israel’s representative, Cohen, has called on the Vatican to outrightly condemn the terrorist activities of Hamas. This follows a report by The Times of Israel. Cohen criticized the Holy See for its apparent bias, showing more concern for Gazan civilians while Israel mourns over 1,300 victims. He further stressed that Hamas terrorists have targeted women, children and the elderly simply because they are Jews and Israelis.

On October 11th, Pope Francis made a call for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. However, he also criticized what he termed as Israel’s “total siege” on Palestinians in Gaza. While acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, he expressed worry over innocent victims in Gaza. This stance has drawn criticism from American Catholic intellectual George Weigel.

Weigel accused Pope Francis of falling back on a “default position” which appeals to both sides when a direct condemnation was required instead. Similarly critical were voices from the Israeli Embassy to the Holy See; they warned against Vatican statements that seemed to imply equal guilt between victims and perpetrators involved in recent atrocities.

Pope Francis emphasized that terrorism and extremism only serve to fuel hatred, violence and suffering. However, his stance has been met with criticism from those who believe he should adopt a stronger stand against acts of terror perpetrated by