Netanyahu Highlights Crushing Blows to Enemies Amid Leadership Assassinations

Israeli PM Netanyahu proclaimed significant military actions, including attacks on Hamas and Hezbollah leaders, during a national address. Despite admitting to challenging times, he vowed to continue fighting. The U.S. expressed concern over rising tensions following these events, while Palestinian factions marked mourning for Hamas leader Haniyeh.

Hours following the deaths of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh and senior Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that his nation has delivered 'crushing blows' to its adversaries over recent days, according to CNN. During a national address, Netanyahu refrained from claiming responsibility for Haniyeh's assassination. Israel has neither confirmed nor denied involvement in Haniyeh's death.

'Three weeks ago, we struck at Hamas military chief Mohammad Deif. Two weeks ago, we targeted the Houthis. Recently, we attacked Hezbollah's military chief, Fuad Shukr,' the Israeli PM elaborated. He warned of 'challenging days' ahead and vowed that Israel will 'settle score' with its enemies.

'We face threats from Beirut and are ready for any scenario,' Netanyahu emphasized. 'We'll hold accountable anyone who harms us, massacres our children, murders our citizens, or injures our nation.' He reaffirmed Israel's resolve to continue fighting until achieving the war's objectives, dismissing calls to end the conflict in Gaza.

The White House responded to Haniyeh's death, stating it 'can't confirm or verify' Hamas reports that the political leader was killed in an Israeli strike in Tehran. John Kirby, U.S. National Security Council Coordinator for Strategic Communications, acknowledged that the deaths of Haniyeh and Shukr could exacerbate tensions.

'We're obviously concerned about escalation,' Kirby remarked during a White House briefing. CNN reported that Hezbollah confirmed Shukr's death on Wednesday, celebrating him as a 'great martyr' in a statement.

In another statement, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas declared a national day of mourning for Haniyeh, condemning the assassination as a 'cowardly act and dangerous development'. Palestinian flags were flown at half-staff, and factions called for a general strike and demonstrations in the West Bank, marking a rare moment of Palestinian unity amid leadership uncertainty in Gaza.

(With inputs from agencies.)