Netanyahu reiterates goal of ending Gaza war

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday that the goal of expanding military operations in the Gaza Strip is not to prolong the war but to end it.

Speaking to the press, the Israeli leader stressed that Israel has no choice but to defeat Hamas and "complete the mission," adding that Israel's goal is not to occupy Gaza, but to "liberate" it.

He noted that he ordered the military to accelerate the timetable for seizing Gaza from Hamas control, citing his determination to end the war swiftly.

Netanyahu reiterated five principles outlined during a security cabinet meeting last week, where he called for the disarmament of Hamas, the return of all hostages, the demilitarization of Gaza,.. Israeli security control over the territory, and the establishment of an alternative civilian government not linked to Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.