Netanyahu’s rival vows to end Hamas rule within 18 months if elected
Gadi Eisenkot says he will seek to disarm Hamas through US president Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan or Israeli military operations if he wins the Oct 27 election.
Israeli opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot, set to compete against incumbent Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in upcoming elections, announced his intention to abolish Hamas's rule in the Gaza Strip within 18 months if elected. Speaking at a press conference near the war-torn Palestinian territory, Eisenkot pledged to bring an end to Hamas's sovereignty, either by adhering to the US President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan or through Israel's military actions to dismantle Hamas's military wing.
The opposition politician's bold statement comes amid a tense political climate following the Oct 7, 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in over 1,200 fatalities. Although Israel has maintained a military presence in 53% of Gaza since the ceasefire was declared, the territory now comes under the control of Hamas, which continues to arm itself and engage in military activities.
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Also reported by 2 other outlets
- Netanyahu’s rival vows to end Hamas rule within 18 months if elected freemalaysiatoday.com
- Eisenkot vows to destroy Hamas within 18 months of becoming PM israelnationalnews.com
