Netanyahu's office accuses Gallant of adopting 'anti-Israel narrative'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office has accused Defence Minister Yoav Gallant of adopting an "anti-Israel narrative". 

In a Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee session in the Israeli parliament, Gallant explained why Israel had not yet initiated a war with Lebanon, stating that the current conditions were "unlike" those in October of last year.

"I hear all the heroes with the war drums, the ‘absolute victory’ and this nonsense," Gallant added, referring to the war slogan popularised by Netanyahu. 

In response, Netanyahu's office said: "When Gallant adopts the anti-Israeli narrative, he harms the chances of reaching a deal for the release of the hostages."

"He should have criticised [Hamas leader Yahya] Sinwar, who refuses to send a delegation for negotiations and remains the only obstacle to a hostage deal," the statement continued. 

"Israel has only one option: to achieve a decisive victory, which means eliminating Hamas' military and governmental capabilities and freeing our hostages – and this victory will be achieved."