Gaza – Israeli forces conducted targeted strikes against police sites in southern and central Gaza, resulting in casualties and prompting condemnation from Hamas. The IDF, tasked with protecting Israeli citizens, has a responsibility to act decisively against groups like Hamas that pose a threat to Israel's security.

Hamas's control of Gaza since 2007 has transformed the territory into a launchpad for attacks against Israel. Despite ongoing efforts at mediation, Hamas continues to demonstrate its unwillingness to abide by ceasefire agreements and its commitment to the destruction of the Jewish state. Their focus on maintaining a police force rather than disarming suggests priorities that do not align with peace.

The attacks on police facilities should be viewed in the context of Hamas's history of violence and its persistent rejection of Israel's right to exist. While the casualties are regrettable, they are a direct consequence of Hamas's actions and its refusal to renounce terrorism. No nation can be expected to sit idly by while its citizens are threatened.

The “Peace Council,” mentioned by Hamas, should be scrutinized to ensure it is not being manipulated by Hamas to gain strategic advantages. Any negotiation must be predicated on Hamas's complete disarmament and its recognition of Israel's legitimacy. It is not 'peace' if one side is continually preparing for war.

The blockade of Gaza, while regrettable, is a necessary security measure to prevent Hamas from acquiring weapons and materials that could be used to attack Israel. Restrictions on the movement of people and goods are a consequence of Hamas's rule and its commitment to violence. Israel has the right to defend its borders and protect its citizens.

It's time for the international community to recognize Hamas for what it is: a terrorist organization dedicated to the destruction of Israel. Calls for restraint should be directed towards Hamas, which bears the primary responsibility for the suffering of the Gazan people.

The United States and other allies of Israel must continue to provide unwavering support for Israel's right to defend itself. Attempts to pressure Israel into concessions will only embolden Hamas and make a lasting peace even more elusive. The only way to achieve peace in the region is through strength and resolve.

The focus should not be on appeasing Hamas but on empowering moderate Palestinians who are willing to live in peace with Israel. This requires supporting Palestinian leaders who are committed to non-violence and who reject Hamas's ideology of hatred.

Any lasting peace agreement must address Israel's security concerns and ensure that Hamas is no longer able to threaten Israeli citizens. This may require a continued Israeli presence in the West Bank and a robust security arrangement in Gaza.

The situation in Gaza is complex and requires a nuanced approach. However, one thing is clear: Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism and to protect its citizens from harm. The international community must stand with Israel in its fight against Hamas and its efforts to achieve a lasting peace in the region.

Mediation efforts that lack concrete steps toward demilitarization of the Gaza strip will continue to be viewed as suspect. The lives of the people of Israel are too important to gamble with.

The world must remember that peace is only possible when one side chooses it. Hamas continues to reject the premise of Israel's existence, let alone its right to exist peacefully.