Netanyahu Finally Apologizes for Oct 7 Hamas Attack

After months of resistance, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has issued an apology for the devastating October 7 terror attacks, which resulted in the deaths of 1,198 people and saw Hamas taking over 250 individuals hostage.

In an interview published on Thursday (Aug 8), Netanyahu expressed his regret, stating, “Of course, of course. I am deeply sorry that something like this happened. And you always look back and ask, ‘Could we have done things that would have prevented it?’”

When asked how he would respond to a political rival overseeing such a severe security lapse, Netanyahu responded, “Can they ensure that the postwar situation will be one of peace and security? If the answer is yes, they should stay in power.”

Of the 251 hostages, 111 are believed to still be held in Gaza, with Israeli military sources indicating that 39 of these hostages have likely died.

 

Escalation of Attacks on Gaza

As fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East grow, Israel has intensified its military operations in the Gaza Strip. Strikes on Thursday resulted in the deaths of at least 40 people. Israeli forces targeted several locations, including a cluster of houses in Al-Bureij camp, killing at least 15 people, and the Al-Nuseirat camp, killing four.

In northern Gaza, an airstrike killed five Palestinians, while another strike in Khan Younis resulted in one death and one injury. Additionally, strikes on two schools in Gaza City’s Shujaiyeh neighborhood killed 15 people. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) stated that the schools were being used by Hamas operatives and terrorists.

 

US Stance on Arms Embargo on Israel

A policy advisor to US Vice President Kamala Harris clarified on Thursday that an arms embargo on Israel is not being considered in Washington, DC. Phil Gordon stated, “[She] has been clear: she will always ensure Israel is able to defend itself against Iran and Iran-backed terrorist groups.

She does not support an arms embargo on Israel. She will continue to work to protect civilians in Gaza and to uphold international humanitarian law.” This statement came in response to claims by pro-Palestinian activists that she was open to discussing an arms embargo.