Tal Heinrich, an official spokesperson for the Israeli government, emphasized the country’s firm position regarding the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Heinrich asserted, “At this juncture, the idea of a cease-fire or any halt in operations is simply not on the table.”
As Heinrich explained on Newsmax’s program “American Agenda,” “Israel is determined to carry on with its military initiatives within Gaza, which includes the intensified ground operations currently in progress, for as long as necessary to accomplish our objective of neutralizing Hamas. Our resolve stems from the necessity to respond to their actions.”
Heinrich highlighted the relentless rocket fire Israel is enduring: “Consider the barrage of 9,000 rockets over a span of 26 days, subsequent to the devastating loss of 1,400 Israeli lives and the injury of over 5,500 individuals. Our response will be proportionate to their aggression, as living under constant threat is untenable.”
In the diplomatic arena, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to arrive in Israel and Jordan this Friday. His agenda is focused on advocating for the evacuation of additional foreign nationals from Gaza, while also facilitating the influx of humanitarian aid into the region. Moreover, Blinken is expected to address the critical issue of civilian protection and urge Israel to take measures against violence directed at Palestinians by Jewish settlers in the occupied territories of the West Bank.
In response to President Joe Biden’s remarks on Wednesday, advocating for an escalated delivery of vital humanitarian support to Gaza, Heinrich acknowledged that Israel had enacted temporary “humanitarian pauses and cessation of activities in the southern regions,” notably when two pairs of female hostages were released by Hamas.
The Israeli spokesperson reiterated the government’s anticipation for the release of more hostages by Hamas, stating, “Our expectation is clear – an immediate and unconditional release of the hostages is imperative. Only then can discussions regarding further ceasefires that would facilitate the exit of additional hostages proceed.”
Regarding assistance to Palestinian civilians, Heinrich conveyed that Israel had already permitted the passage of numerous trucks laden with essential humanitarian supplies such as medical aid, food, and water. These supplies are entering Gaza through the Rafah border crossing from Egypt and are directed to safe zones established for civilians in the southwestern parts of the territory.
Heinrich also noted that close to 900,000 Palestinians have moved to these safer areas, in line with instructions from the Israeli government, from a northern Gaza population of about 1.1 million people.
She concluded by saying, “The coordination of humanitarian assistance is an ongoing effort involving various international bodies, including the United Nations, to ensure that aid continues to reach those in need.”
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