In a fiery speech on Holocaust Remembrance Day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel will “stand alone” in its war against Hamas, rejecting international pressure to halt the conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu’s defiant stance came after President Joe Biden announced that the United States would not provide offensive weapons for Israel’s assault on the southern Gaza city of Rafah.
“As the Prime Minister of Israel, the one and only Jewish State, I pledge here today, if Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone. But we know we are not alone, because countless decent people around the world support our just cause. And I say to you we will defeat our genocidal enemies,” Netanyahu stated.
Netanyahu highlighted the historical vulnerability of the Jewish people during the Holocaust, emphasizing that no nation came to their aid. He warned world leaders that no amount of pressure or decisions from international forums would deter Israel from defending itself.
The conflict in Gaza escalated after Hamas militants breached the border into Israel, leading to casualties and the seizure of hostages. Israel has characterized its offensive as targeting Hamas’ infrastructure while minimizing civilian casualties.
Hamas recently fired rockets from the Rafah border crossing, killing four soldiers and disrupting humanitarian aid deliveries. The situation remains tense, with residents receiving evacuation notices and aid organizations coordinating relief efforts.
Netanyahu’s defiant stance underscores Israel’s determination to confront its enemies and protect its citizens, even if it means standing alone in the face of international pressure.