TEL AVIV: In response to the surprise attack on Israel from Gaza, Israeli opposition leader and former prime minister Yair Lapid has offered insights into the ongoing crisis, which has been equated to “Israel’s 9/11” due to the severity of the incursion and its tragic toll on both Israelis and Palestinians.
Lapid expressed a sobering view of the situation, noting, “If you want to look at sad statistics, apparently this (October 7) is the worst day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust.”
Acknowledging the significant security lapse that allowed for such “vicious terror” attacks, Lapid emphasized that Israel’s primary objective is the elimination of all terrorist capabilities held by Hamas.
He declared, “The endgame is, there will be no Hamas in Gaza,” and conveyed his belief that the Palestinian Authority should reassume control in Gaza, as it did in the past. Lapid recognized the presence of many unknowns and the complexity of the situation but emphasized that the immediate focus is on preventing any resurgence of Hamas and its capabilities in Gaza.
Lapid offered a perspective on Hamas’ motivations, contending that the group’s actions are not driven by a desire for a Palestinian state but rather an aspiration for “an Islamic territory extending worldwide.”
Regarding regional conflicts, Lapid underscored Israel’s commitment to averting a broader confrontation with Lebanon or Iran. He noted that warnings have been relayed to Hezbollah in Lebanon and Palestinians in the West Bank and East Jerusalem.
Lapid expressed support for Israel’s defense minister’s decision to impose a complete siege on Gaza, including restrictions on food and electricity for its 2.2 million residents. In response to criticism from the United Nations, he firmly stated that “Hamas is to be blamed” for the dire situation.
Lapid reiterated his belief in the feasibility of a two-state solution, emphasizing that it aligns with the best interests of the State of Israel.
