Netanyahu: "What Hamas will go through will be difficult and terrible"

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with the heads of authorities in the south and informed them about the battle against Hamas.

According to Netanyahu: "We are in the midst of a battle; I know that you have gone through terrible and difficult things. What Hamas will go through will be tough and terrible - we are already in the midst of the battle, and we have only just begun it. Your leadership is very strong during these tough days; it will take time and require strong resilience in the coming difficult days."

He also said: "The country will move heaven and earth to assist all of you. I ask you to stand steadfast because we are going to change the Middle East. I embrace you and the residents - all of us are with you, and we will defeat them with strength, great strength."

Earlier, the Prime Minister and the leader of the opposition, Yair Lapid, met for a security situation update.