Worries over Israel-Hamas truce, Netanyahu: ‘Ready to return to war if necessary’

On the eve of the ceasefire, shooting in Tel Aviv and air raid sirens in Israel

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke today, 18 January, on the eve of the entry into force of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, set for tomorrow at 8.30am. During the speech, Netanyahu reiterated that Israel ‘is ready to unleash tremendous force’ against Gaza if the agreement is not respected.

Netanyahu stressed that the agreement will not proceed without the full list of hostages Hamas has promised to release, assuring that any violation will be attributed exclusively to the Palestinian organisation.

Meanwhile, the situation remains extremely tense. A shooting today in southern Tel Aviv left several people injured. Israeli police said they were investigating a possible terrorist attack, while the suspect responsible was killed on the spot.

Air raid sirens also sounded again today in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. The Israeli army (IDF) confirmed the interception of two missiles fired from Yemen, for which the Houthi militia claimed responsibility, while stating that the attacks will cease once the ceasefire in Gaza begins.

According to Netanyahu, the ceasefire represents a temporary truce to free hostages and assess subsequent developments. ‘Israel will bring hostages home alive thanks to our determination,’ the PM said. He added that the US and Britain had pledged full support to Israel should a return to the conflict be necessary.

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(Photo: © AndKronos)