The Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari has sparked controversy by stating that Hamas, the Palestinian resistance organization, cannot be eradicated as it is deeply ingrained in the hearts and ideology of its supporters.
This statement contradicts Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s longstanding assertion that only the complete destruction of Hamas can end the conflict in Gaza.
In an interview with CBS News, Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari acknowledged, “Hamas is not just an organization; it’s an ideology rooted in the people’s beliefs. The notion that we can eliminate Hamas is mistaken.”
This remark has underscored a visible divide between Israel’s military and political leadership.
Netanyahu’s office swiftly dismissed Hagari’s remarks, emphasizing their commitment to completely eliminating Hamas. Al Jazeera correspondent Hamdah Salhut reported that Netanyahu’s office reacted with strong disapproval to Hagari’s comments, highlighting the discord between military and governmental objectives in the ongoing conflict.
The Israeli military has clarified Hagari’s statement, asserting that his remarks were misconstrued.
They clarified that Hagari emphasized targeting Hamas’ ideology, not its organizational existence, which remains a strategic objective for Israel.
Despite Netanyahu’s repeated assertions of the necessity to eradicate Hamas for lasting peace, the remarks from Hagari reflect ongoing complexities in Israel’s approach to the conflict, which has persisted despite significant casualties among Palestinians since October 7.
