Jerusalem [Israel], December 10: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during a Monday night press conference, praised the military’s recent achievements and declared that victory “is becoming a reality.” His remarks come in the wake of the Syrian government’s collapse and ahead of his testimony in an ongoing corruption trial.
“The complete victory that critics mocked is becoming a reality today,” Netanyahu asserted. “With the fall of the regime in Damascus, Hamas stands more isolated than ever. It anticipated support from Hezbollah, Iran, and the Assad regime, but that will no longer materialize. This opens a new avenue for advancing peace agreements.”
Progress Toward Hostage Deal with Hamas
Netanyahu hinted at progress in reaching a hostage agreement with Hamas but refrained from confirming reports of a potential list of hostages prepared for release. “Challenges remain in the campaign, but our hand remains outstretched,” he said, acknowledging ongoing efforts.
Impact of Syrian Collapse and Regional Implications
Netanyahu attributed the collapse of the Syrian regime to Israel’s military pressure on Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. He reaffirmed Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, expressing gratitude to former U.S. President Donald Trump for his recognition of Israeli sovereignty in 2019. “The Golan will forever be an inseparable part of Israel,” Netanyahu stated firmly.
He criticized Hamas’ control over humanitarian aid deliveries, emphasizing the need for alternative strategies. “We aimed to eliminate Hamas’ military capabilities and are exploring ways to ensure aid is delivered effectively,” he noted.
Netanyahu on Corruption Trial
Addressing his corruption trial, Netanyahu dismissed the investigations as politically motivated. “The investigations against me were born of sin. They invented offenses and coerced false testimony from those around me,” he claimed.
Netanyahu’s remarks underscore Israel’s evolving regional strategy following the Syrian regime’s collapse and ongoing efforts to address Hamas’ influence.