Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar strongly defended Sunday the IDF military operations in Gaza and criticized former Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon's recent accusations of "ethnic cleansing" while saying that there are growing signs that Hamas might be more flexible in its talks on a hostage deal with Israel.
Speaking at the Israel Hayom security conference, he spoke about the emerging progress, "There are indications of movement toward a hostage deal, though I can't provide more details at this time. We're seeing signs of potentially greater flexibility due to circumstances that have developed, such as the arrangement in Lebanon. We'll know more in the coming days. From the Israeli government's perspective, there's a willingness to pursue this, and I hope we can make progress.
"Regarding the fundamental determination that Hamas cannot control Gaza, we must maintain this position. We need to try to advance an arrangement regarding the hostages. We are committed to making this effort."
Sa'ar called Ya'alon's suggestion that Israeli troops were carrying out crimes "reckless and irresponsible statements that caused damage." He said, "This is particularly evident in how Arab media outlets and social networks have used these claims, as they echo statements from someone who previously held a senior position, despite these claims being completely baseless," adding, "Everything Israel does is in accordance with international law. It's deeply regrettable that former Minister Ya'alon hasn't realized the grave error and damage he has caused and hasn't retracted these statements. I hope he will do so."
The foreign chief also criticized the International Criminal Court for issuing arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. "They're trying to tie our hands and feet. You see countries like France and Holland stating that foreign leaders have immunity that applies in this case. While this isn't the only response, the most significant voices are coming from Washington, where senior senators are calling for sanctions against those who cooperate with the ICC.
"I'm convinced the next administration in Washington will take strong measures. I remind our European friends not to rush to embrace this development and to consider this direction as well," he added.
