Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted a video last night (Wednesday), in which he clarified in English: "Israel has no intention of permanently occupying Gaza, or displacing its civilian population. Israel is fighting the terrorists, not the Palestinian population. And we are doing so in full compliance with international law."
Netanyahu released the video just before the start of the hearing on the lawsuit filed by Africa against Israel at the International Court of Justice in The Hague, alleging that Israel is committing war crimes and murder with Gaza.
"The IDF is doing its utmost to minimize civilian casualties, while Hamas is doing its utmost to maximize them by using Palestinian civilians as human shields. The IDF urges Palestinian civilians to leave Warzones by disseminating leaflets, making phone calls, and providing safe passage corridors. At the same time, Hamas prevents Palestinians from leaving at gunpoint and often with gunfire."
"Our goal is to read Gaza of Hamas terrorists and free our hostages. Once this is achieved, Gaza can be demilitarized and de-radicalized. Thereby, creating a possibility for a better future for Israel and Palestinians alike." stated Netanyahu.