Netanyahu Addresses US Independence Day in Jerusalem

On Tuesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke at a US embassy event in Jerusalem to celebrate American Independence Day. He took this opportunity to highlight the strong ties between the US and Israel, as well as address Israeli military actions targeting Hamas leaders based in Qatar.

During the event, hosted by US Ambassador Mike Huckabee and his wife Janet, Netanyahu conveyed a belated birthday wish to America, expressing gratitude for the enduring partnership between the two nations. “Israel has no better friends than America. There are no better friends in America than Israel,” he stated, emphasizing shared values and historical connections.

He then shifted focus to a recent military operation, confirming that Israel conducted a precise strike against Hamas leadership gathered in Doha, Qatar. This action followed a series of terrorist attacks on Monday that resulted in the death of six Israeli civilians at a bus stop in Jerusalem, along with four soldiers in Gaza. Hamas publicly claimed responsibility for these attacks.

Netanyahu stated that those targeted in Doha were the same commanders responsible for the brutal attacks on October 7, 2023. He recalled the horrific events, describing them as unspeakable acts of violence and oppression, including the taking of over 250 hostages. “And today, Israel and I have kept that promise,” he asserted.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) and Israeli Security Agency (ISA) explained that the operation, named “Fire Couple,” was designed to minimize civilian harm. Until that point, Israel had been cautious about targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar. In response to the strike, Qatar condemned it as a violation of international law.

The White House referred to the attack as “unfortunate,” highlighting concerns about potential repercussions for US allies while recognizing the importance of eliminating Hamas leaders. White House Press Director Caroline Levitt noted that President Donald Trump was briefed on the operation beforehand and dispatched a special envoy, Steve Witkov, to inform Qatar. Trump later spoke with both Netanyahu and Qatari officials, urging efforts to secure the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza to facilitate peace.

Netanyahu maintained that Israel acted with complete independence and total responsibility for the strike. He suggested that if Hamas complied with the US plan—initially proposed by Trump—there could be potential openings for peace. This plan includes the release of all hostages held in Gaza and Hamas’ disarmament in exchange for a ceasefire. Netanyahu reiterated that while Israel accepted the plan, Hamas did not.

He directly appealed to the Palestinian people, urging those in Gaza not to support the violent actions of Hamas. He pointed out that Hamas leaders live in luxury while putting civilians at risk. “Stand up for your rights and your future,” he pleaded. “We accept President Trump’s proposal… there are no restrictions on our common future.”

Defence Minister Israel Katz also issued a warning, stating that if Hamas refuses to disarm and release the hostages, Gaza could face severe consequences, echoing Netanyahu’s statement that Israel is prepared to end the conflict under Trump’s terms.

Netanyahu concluded by thanking Ambassador Huckabee and his wife for their hospitality, joking that Israel could use “five or six more Mike Huckabees” to avoid diplomatic challenges in the future.