Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a combat officers’ graduation ceremony and displayed images of Shiri Bibas and her two sons, Ariel and Kfir, delivering a solemn message about what they are fighting for and against whom they are fighting. Shiri and her children were killed in the early days of the war, and Netanyahu emphasized the need to defeat the enemies who seek to annihilate them. He urged the graduates to engrave the picture of the Bibas family in their hearts as a reminder of their mission to secure Israel’s existence.
Hamas returned the bodies of Shiri’s two sons but initially provided the wrong remains for Shiri in what Netanyahu called a “brazen violation of their agreement.” Israeli forensic authorities were able to identify Shiri’s remains, as well as the body of Oded Lifshitz, who was kidnapped by Hamas and allegedly murdered. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for President Trump’s support and his plan to create a different Gaza through allowing free exit for Gazans and supplying Israel with vital weapons. He highlighted the importance of the new defensive and offensive arms to achieve victory and enhance their ability to defend against enemies.
Netanyahu outlined his government’s objectives, stating that most of Hamas’s organized strength in Gaza has been eliminated. However, he emphasized the need to complete the war objectives, including the return of all abductees and the dismantling of Gaza’s combat capability. He expressed determination to achieve these goals through negotiation or other means, reaffirming that Hamas will not govern Gaza. Trump’s envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, plans to negotiate an extension of Phase One of the ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas, with Phase Two focusing on ensuring Hamas will not return to government leadership in Gaza.
The prime minister’s speech highlighted the ongoing conflict with Hamas and the need to continue efforts to secure Israel’s safety and defeat their enemies. Netanyahu praised the combat officers for their dedication and emphasized the importance of fulfilling their mission. He expressed appreciation for President Trump’s support and his commitment to assisting Israel in achieving victory. Netanyahu also reiterated the government’s objectives in dealing with Hamas and ensuring the return of abductees while dismantling Gaza’s combat capability.
The return of Shiri Bibas and her sons’ bodies by Hamas sparked outrage and condemnation from Netanyahu, who described the act as a violation of the agreement. Israeli forensic authorities were able to identify Shiri’s remains, along with the body of another Israeli citizen kidnapped by Hamas. Netanyahu emphasized the importance of securing Israel’s borders and the need to defeat the enemies who seek to destroy them. The prime minister’s speech underscored the continued determination to achieve victory and ensure Israel’s safety in the face of ongoing threats from terrorist groups like Hamas.
In conclusion, Netanyahu’s address at the combat officers’ graduation ceremony highlighted the ongoing conflict with Hamas and the challenges faced by Israel in securing its borders and protecting its citizens. The prime minister emphasized the importance of defeating their enemies and achieving victory through a combination of negotiation and military strength. Netanyahu expressed gratitude for President Trump’s support and commitment to assisting Israel in ensuring its safety and security. The return of Shiri Bibas and her sons’ bodies by Hamas served as a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by terrorist groups in the region and the need for continued vigilance and determination in the face of such challenges.
