Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Saturday that Israel has “settled the score” with Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah, who was killed in an airstrike in Beirut.
In his first statement following Nasrallah’s death, Netanyahu emphasized that the action was directed at a figure responsible for the deaths of many, including Israelis, Americans, and French citizens.
Netanyahu referenced the 1983 bombings in Beirut that resulted in significant casualties, including 63 deaths at the U.S. embassy and the deaths of 241 U.S. Marines and 58 French paratroopers. He asserted that as long as Nasrallah was alive, Hezbollah’s capabilities would remain a threat to Israel.
He stated, “So, I gave the order — and Nasrallah is no longer with us,” highlighting the significance of this action in Israel’s ongoing conflict with its adversaries. Netanyahu described the moment as a potential “historic turning point” in the fight against terrorism.
The Israeli leader, who has faced increasing criticism over his war strategy amid ongoing conflict in Gaza, labeled Nasrallah’s elimination as crucial to Israel’s objectives, which include the safe return of residents in northern Israel and a long-term shift in the regional balance of power.
Netanyahu also suggested that Nasrallah’s death would impact the situation regarding hostages taken by Hamas during its October 7 attack, stating that the diminished support from Hezbollah could enhance the prospects of securing their release.
“The more (Hamas leader Yahya) Sinwar sees that Hezbollah will no longer come to his aid, the greater the chances of returning our captives,” he noted.
He concluded by affirming Israel’s resolve, saying, “We are winning. We are determined to continue striking our enemies, returning our residents to their homes, and bringing back all our hostages. We do not forget them for a moment.”
