Part 12/16:
Regarding ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza, May described the current phase as “operational,” with Israeli forces having taken approximately 40% of the city and attempting to evacuate civilians. The military’s objective appears to be the destruction of Hamas tunnel networks and leadership hideouts while minimizing civilian casualties.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated a willingness to halt military activity if Hamas releases hostages and disarms. However, May pointed out the complexities of such negotiations, highlighting that Hamas's leadership has historically used hostage-taking as leverage, complicating a straightforward ceasefire.