Israel's Netanyahu says Hezbollah 'on its knees'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday, that Israel is preparing a major new military operation in Gaza, vowing that the campaign against Hamas would intensify and declaring that Hezbollah has already been "brought to its knees."

During a visit to the Tze'elim military base, where Israeli reservists are training for operations in Gaza, Netanyahu praised the troops’ readiness and signaled that a new phase of fighting was imminent.

“I came here to see firsthand how our heroic soldiers are preparing for the upcoming intensive operation in Gaza. You carried out excellent drills. The reservists and their commanders are doing an outstanding job,” he said.

Netanyahu stated that Israel's primary objectives remain the destruction of Hamas and the release of hostages. “Our major victory will not be limited to Gaza; it will project across the entire region,” he added.

“We have already reshaped the Middle East. Hezbollah is on its knees, Hamas is even lower. The Assad regime has collapsed, and Iran has felt our strength. There are more threats ahead, but our spirit is strong — and it stands firm thanks to our army,” the prime minister said.

 “To Hamas, I say this — the rules of the game are about to change. Thanks to you,” he added.