“WAR OF REVIVAL”
Netanyahu marked the 600-day milestone in parliament, saying the offensive had “changed the face of the Middle East”.
“We drove the terrorists out of our territory, entered the Gaza Strip with force, eliminated tens of thousands of terrorists, eliminated … Mohammed Sinwar,” he said.
In Washington, US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism about a possible ceasefire, saying he expected to propose a plan soon.
“I have some very good feelings about getting to a long-term resolution, temporary cease fire, and a long-term resolution, a peaceful resolution of that conflict,” he said.
Gazans remained pessimistic.
“Six hundred days have passed, and nothing has changed. Death continues, and Israeli bombing does not stop,” said Bassam Daloul, 40.
“Even hoping for a ceasefire feels like a dream and a nightmare.”
In Israel, relatives of hostages held since the Oct 7 attack gathered in Tel Aviv.
“I want you to know that when Israel blows up deals, it does so on the heads of the hostages,” said Arbel Yehud, who was freed from Gaza captivity in January.
“Their conditions immediately worsen, food diminishes, pressure increases, and bombings and military actions do not save them, they endanger their lives.”
