Chancellor Gideon Sa’ar: 'International pressure strengthens Hamas'

Israel's Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, launched harsh criticism against the recent diplomatic campaign led by Europe to pressure Israel to cease its offensive in Gaza.

According to Sa’ar, several European foreign ministers privately confessed to him that the letter signed by more than 20 countries—including the United Kingdom and France—condemning Israel was a mistake that only served to harden Hamas's stance in the ceasefire negotiations.

"International pressure on Israel only emboldens Hamas", he stated. "The international community should pressure Hamas to release the hostages and lay down its arms, not Israel for defending itself."

Sa’ar emphasized that while the military approach is yielding results, Israel is also open to diplomatic solutions.

However, the latest negotiations in Doha, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, stalled again, despite claims of progress.

The minister also categorically denied the accusations that Israel is causing famine in Gaza.

"The situation is difficult, yes, but the idea that Israel has a hunger policy is a lie", he said. "We're working very hard, under extremely complex circumstances, to allow humanitarian aid in."

Regarding the debate on the recognition of a Palestinian state, Sa’ar was blunt: "Establishing a Palestinian state today is creating a Hamas state, a jihadist state. It's a direct threat to Israel's existence".

His statements also replied to the French president, who this week called for pressure on Israel to accept the two-state solution. "That can't—nor will it—lead Israel to suicide," Sa’ar concluded.

The foreign minister concluded by denouncing a "distorted international campaign" against Israel that, in addition to being unfair, "fuels antisemitism around the world".