JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected international pressure to halt the war in Gaza in a fiery speech marking the country’s annual Holocaust memorial day, declaring: “If Israel is forced to stand alone, Israel will stand alone.” The message, delivered in a setting that typically avoids politics, was aimed at the growing chorus of world leaders who have criticized the heavy toll caused by Israel’s military offensive against Hamas militants and have urged the sides to agree to a cease-fire. Netanyahu has said he is open to a deal that would pause nearly seven months of fighting and bring home hostages held by Hamas. But he also says he remains committed to an invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah, despite widespread international opposition because of the more than 1 million civilians huddled there. |
Zelensky counts on more Western defence aid for Ukraine in next two monthsPrincess of Wales in hospital, King Charles to get prostate treatmentGhana passes bill making identifying as LGBTQ+ illegalEDITORIAL: BOJ must ensure price stability after change in monetary policyWith House speaker at his side, Trump suggests Ukraine aid should be loanWeek in Politics: Luxon stands out, benefit action under scrutiny and grief over Efeso CollinsGhana passes bill making identifying as LGBTQ+ illegalMovement of pilot's seat a focus of probe into LATAM Boeing flight, report saysPaul McCartney's stolen Beatles bass guitar found after 51 yearsPrime Minister's Auckland office vandalised for third time in six months