Netanyahu: Hamas will be disarmed, the easy way or the hard way, calls Trump a dear friend

(Patria) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the public tonight that Hamas will be disarmed and the Gaza Strip demilitarized. His speech comes after the Israeli army confirmed the release of some of the hostages held by the group in Gaza.

Netanyahu emphasized that the release was influenced by a combination of diplomatic and military pressure. "In the second phase, Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza will be demilitarized – either the easy way or the hard way, but it will be achieved," the prime minister said.

The prime minister expressed confidence that all hostages from Gaza will be returned in the coming days. In his speech, he also thanked U.S. President Donald Trump, whom he called a "dear friend," for military support to Israel.

Netanyahu addressed the public in Hebrew, and his speech was broadcast by Israeli and international media. The messages about disarming Hamas and the complete demilitarization of Gaza represent a continuation of Israel's strategy after months of conflict in the region.