Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his deep concern for the rise of anti-Semitism and the international condemnation of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
He emphasized that no amount of pressure would deter Israel from defending itself.
Netanyahu made these remarks during a Holocaust Remembrance Day ceremony at the Yad Vashem memorial in Jerusalem. He remarked on the defenselessness of the Jewish people during the Holocaust, stating that no nation came to their aid. He also highlighted the current threats faced by Israel and the determination to overcome them.
As a symbolic representation of the hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, an empty yellow chair was displayed. Netanyahu addressed world leaders, declaring that no international decisions or pressures could prevent Israel from safeguarding its people.
He expressed dismay at the global increase in criticism towards Israel and the surge of anti-Semitism. Netanyahu drew parallels between the current protests seen at universities worldwide and the discrimination against Jews during World War II in Germany.
He considered this a distortion of justice and history.
Netanyahu concluded by stating that the criticism faced by Israel was not due to its actions, but solely because of its existence and the fact that it is a Jewish state.
He affirmed that Israel would not be restrained and would continue to fight against evil until victory, determined to overcome its genocidal enemies. He concluded his address with the resolute statement, “Never again is now!”
According to official figures from Israel, the bloodiest conflict in Gaza commenced after Hamas launched an attack, causing the deaths of over 1,170 individuals, predominantly civilians.
Additionally, during the attack, militants took approximately 250 hostages. The Israeli army estimates that 35 of these hostages have died, while 128 remain captive in Gaza.
In response, Israel initiated a retaliatory offensive with the aim of eradicating Hamas.
Tragically, this offensive has resulted in the deaths of at least 34,683 individuals in Gaza, with a majority being women and children, as reported by the health ministry of the Hamas-run territory.
