Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to victory on Sunday, stating that Israel's military has "completely transformed reality" since Hamas' attack on October 7 last year, which ignited conflicts on multiple fronts. Netanyahu addressed troops, assuring them that Israel "will win" as the country continues its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon, while also preparing to confront Iran.
Israel's army chief, Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi, confirmed that the military wing of Hamas has been defeated after a year of intense fighting. However, Netanyahu's initial promise to "crush and destroy" Hamas militants has faced challenges, as Israeli forces have had to return to several areas of Gaza where militants regrouped after prior operations.
In recent weeks, Israel has intensified military action against Hezbollah in Lebanon, following months of rocket attacks by the Iran-backed group in support of Hamas. Netanyahu highlighted that Israel’s military efforts over the past year have fundamentally altered the situation.
On the anniversary of Hamas' attack, the group hailed the operation as "glorious" and claimed they were "writing a new history with their resistance." The attack, which claimed the lives of 1,205 people, mostly civilians, also resulted in numerous hostages being taken by Hamas. While some hostages have since been killed, others remain captive.
Meanwhile, Israel's offensive in Gaza continues, with military forces encircling northern areas like Jabaliya, where Hamas is believed to be rebuilding despite heavy airstrikes. At least 17 people, including nine children, were killed on Sunday in airstrikes on the area.
According to the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, Israeli strikes have killed over 41,870 people in the past year, mostly civilians. Much of Gaza's population has been displaced, and its infrastructure severely damaged.
In Lebanon, Israel’s strikes have killed over 1,110 people since late September, with Hezbollah continuing to launch attacks on Israeli military positions. Israeli forces have responded with airstrikes on Hezbollah targets, including weapons storage facilities in Beirut.
International leaders, including U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris and the leaders of Jordan and the UAE, have called for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation. However, attempts to mediate a truce and secure a hostage-release deal in Gaza have not been successful.
As the anniversary of the October 7 attack approaches, Israeli forces remain on high alert, anticipating potential attacks on civilian targets. On Sunday, a suspected terrorist attack at a bus station in Beersheba killed a border policewoman and injured ten others, further intensifying security concerns.