Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly dismissed an alarming proposal made by Heritage Minister Amihai Eliyahu to employ a nuclear bomb on the Gaza Strip.
In a statement released on X, Netanyahu said, “Minister Amihai Eliyahu’s statements are not based in reality. Israel and the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) are operating in accordance with the highest standards of international law to avoid harming innocents. We will continue to do so until our victory”.
Defence Minister Gallant condemned Eliyahu’s remark as “groundless and irresponsible” and added, “It’s good that these are not the people responsible for Israel’s security”.
Eliyahu also sparked controversy by objecting to humanitarian aid being allowed into Gaza and suggesting that the Palestinian population could relocate to Ireland or deserts.
The suggestion of using a nuclear bomb on Gaza has been met with widespread condemnation from various quarters, including human rights groups, the United Nations, and the international community. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called it “a dangerous and irresponsible provocation that could have catastrophic consequences for the region and the world”.
Eventually, on Sunday morning, it was declared by Netanyahu’s office that Eliyahu had been prohibited from participating in government meetings until further instructions were given, according to Haaretz media agency.
Israel has been carrying out airstrikes and ground operations in the Gaza Strip since November 1, following a series of rocket attacks by Hamas. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 300 Palestinian and 12 Israeli deaths, and has displaced more than 50,000 people.
A global media for the latest news, entertainment, music fashion, and more.
