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CBSJun 29
IDF Spokesman's Comments on Hamas Rebuked By Netanyahu's Office
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The Facts
Israel’s military spokesman, Daniel Hagari, said on Wednesday: "Hamas is an idea, Hamas is a party. It’s rooted in the hearts of the people — whoever thinks we can eliminate Hamas is wrong."
Hagari added that "if we don’t provide an alternative, in the end, we will have Hamas." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office refuted the comments, saying that Israel is committed to "the destruction of Hamas' military and governmental capabilities."
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
Israel must be able to defend itself from terrorist attacks from Gaza or elsewhere, which is why the US remains committed to preventing malicious actors from threatening Israel's legitimate concerns. However, the Biden administration is losing its patience with Netanyahu's intransigence. Netanyahu must be willing to work with Israel's allies to find a productive resolution to this conflict.
Pro-Israel narrative
Hamas simply cannot stay in power in Gaza, and Israel must continue fighting the good fight. Indeed, If Israel does not destroy Hamas, the group will immediately begin planning the next Oct. 7 terrorist attack. Though there are pressures at home and abroad to end the war prematurely, Israel must get the hostages back and eliminate Hamas.
Pro-Palestine narrative
It should be clear after nine months of grinding brutality that Israel's true goal is to destroy Gaza and starve its people. Even the military is now admitting that it is not capable of defeating Hamas, yet Israel's political leadership refuses to end this genocidal campaign. The US must force Israel to finally stop.