Netanyahu defends military expansion in Gaza and lashes out at ‘global campaign of lies’ World Aug 10, 2025 11:54 AM EDT

JERUSALEM (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday sought to defend a new military offensive in one of Gaza’s most populated areas amid growing condemnation at home and abroad, declaring that Israel “has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas.”

He spoke to foreign media minutes before an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council on Gaza. Notably, Netanyahu said he has directed Israel’s military in recent days to “bring in more foreign journalists” — which would be a striking development, as they haven’t been allowed into Gaza beyond military embeds during 22 months of war.

“Our goal is not to occupy Gaza, ou

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