Netanyahu says counterattack has moved to 'third stage'
Netanyahu announces response has entered “third phase”
\n\nThe Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, announced that Israel's response to the escalation of Hamas rocket attacks has entered its "third phase".
\n\nIsrael's response to Hamas attacks
\n\nDuring an Israeli government meeting, Netanyahu said that Israel's response to Hamas rocket attacks is taking place in several phases and that the response has now reached its third phase.
\n\n"The first phase, the immediate cessation of Hamas rocket attacks, has been achieved. The second phase, the destruction of Hamas infrastructure, is underway. And now we are entering the third phase," Netanyahu said.
\n\nThe “third phase” of the response
\n\nThere third phase, as Netanyahu explained, will include a "tougher and more meaningful response" to Hamas's continued attacks. This response will include targeted airstrikes against Hamas leaders and the movement's main infrastructure.
\n\nNetanyahu warned that this phase could "take time", but insisted that Israel was "prepared for all eventualities".
\n\nInternational reactions
\n\nThe declaration of Netanyahu came amid growing international calls for a ceasefire. However, the Israeli prime minister insisted that his country will continue to respond to attacks as long as it is necessary to ensure the safety of its citizens.
\n\n“We will not stop until we restore calm to our citizens, no matter how long it may take,” Netanyahu said.
\n\nThe humanitarian situation in Gaza
\n\nThe attacks have led to a devastating humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, leaving thousands of people displaced and without access to essential services such as water and electricity. Humanitarian aid and efforts toward a ceasefire will likely be key factors in the next phase of Israel’s response.
\n\nWith the “third phase” of Netanyahu’s response now underway, the world continues to watch anxiously as this dangerous and volatile situation unfolds.
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