Defeating Hamas is 'prerequisite to defeat the axis of evil', says Netanyahu

The war in Gaza "will only end after we have accomplished our objectives," said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Said objectives include: destroying Hamas’ military capabilities, freeing the captives and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.

Defeating Hamas is a "prerequisite to defeat the axis of evil", he told the press conference, referring to Iran and its allies.

He referred to the al-Mawasi strikes, saying that Hamas has been relenting due to Israel’s show of force in Gaza and that the strikes earlier today "contributed to that".