Israel prepares to mark 3 years since October 7 Hamas attacks

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cautioned Hamas on Tuesday against planning any attacks ahead of Israel's upcoming Knesset election on October 27, vowing that Israel would counter any such efforts with "tremendous force" should Hamas attempt to sway the vote. "Given Hamas' weakness, they will attempt to challenge us with the remnants of their forces in the run-up to the elections in order to influence the outcome," Netanyahu stated during the opening of the cabinet meeting.

The Israeli leader's warning emerged a day after the IDF Chief of Staff, Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, reportedly informed the security cabinet that Israel was entering a critical period due to both the elections and the upcoming anniversary of the October 7 terror attack. Additionally, Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) Director David Zini had cautioned ministers that Hamas might attempt to kidnap soldiers near election time.

Netanyahu began his remarks by paying tribute to the victims of the October 7 massacre and the subsequent war, expressing his sorrow and pain for the heroes who perished and the families who suffered. He emphasized that in the three years since the attack, Israel had killed 4,000 of Hamas' 6,000 operatives, vowing that "none of them has immunity" and that "Hamas rule in Gaza will be eradicated."

Since the October 7 tragedy, Netanyahu highlighted two significant developments: the strengthening of Israel's position as the most powerful country in the Middle East and the revitalization of the Tekuma region. Over 90% of residents in this area have returned to their homes, and numerous others have joined them. The Tekuma Administration reported that more than 1,000 rehabilitation projects have been completed, with the remaining displaced communities progressing towards their returns as part of the ongoing reconstruction efforts.

Netanyahu added that similar progress was occurring in the North, urging his enemies to be cautious. He reminded them of the recent war on seven fronts and cautioned them against making any moves against Israel.