Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned at the opening of the cabinet meeting on Tuesday that a depleted Hamas would 'try to challenge us with its remaining strength' ahead of Israeli elections in an attempt to influence the outcome. Netanyahu stated that Israel will thwart any such attempts and 'respond with overwhelming force if they make that mistake.'
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu provided a more detailed warning at the opening of the weekly cabinet meeting on Tuesday, stating explicitly that Hamas, despite its degradation, 'will try to challenge us with its remaining strength ahead of the elections to try to influence them.' He vowed that Israel will thwart any such attempts and 'respond with overwhelming force if they make that mistake.'
As The Zioneer reported at 13:52, Netanyahu earlier said a weakened Hamas may attempt to disrupt the elections and that Israel would respond with 'overwhelming force.' The new quote adds the specific assessment that the terror group would act with its remaining capacity and attempt to influence the vote. Netanyahu has repeatedly warned during the election period of potential security challenges from both Hamas and Iran aimed at shaping the political landscape. The warning comes as Israel's security establishment remains on high alert ahead of the November elections.
4 developments
- StrongNetanyahu: Israel has 'clear evidence' Iran, Hamas, Hezbollah preparing attacks before elections
- DevelopingEgypt fears Netanyahu will renew Gaza war before elections, report says
- DevelopingNetanyahu warns Iran: Fire is now cautious — we'll respond forcefully to any further attack
- DevelopingEhud Barak: Netanyahu may escalate war or disrupt vote count if he fears losing
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