ALWAGHT- As the Israeli military killed at least 54 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to continue his devastating campaign in the blockaded territory.
Israeli airstrikes killed at least 54 Palestinians across Gaza on Saturday, with bombardments hitting areas such as Gaza City, Khan Younis, Beit Lahia, and al-Bureij refugee camp. According to a Palestinian Civil Defense spokesperson, the death toll could rise as the attacks were ongoing. The escalation follows Israel’s resumption of its military campaign after breaking a nearly two-month ceasefire with Hamas in mid-March.
In a televised speech, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue the offensive until Hamas is defeated, claiming military pressure is the only way to secure the release of captives. Hamas, however, insists it will only agree to an exchange if Israel halts its aggression and withdraws from Gaza. Netanyahu declared that the war had reached a “critical stage,” rejecting any concessions to Hamas.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in Tel Aviv demanding a deal to bring home the remaining Israeli captives. Activist groups criticized Netanyahu’s lack of a clear plan, urging the government to prioritize a ceasefire and prisoner exchange. Since October 7, 2023, over 51,000 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have been killed, while the Israeli campaign has failed to meet its objectives. The ICC has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and his former war minister over alleged war crimes.
