Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu strongly defended Israel’s counter-terror operation in Gaza during a visit Tuesday to Barzilai Hospital in Ashkelon.
During his visit, Netanyahu spoke to dozens of foreign ambassadors, and told them that he expects them to not only support Israel in its fight against terrorism, but also to stand up to Hamas.
“Any democracy would have done what Israel is doing to defend itself,” he declared.
The Prime Minister visited soldiers wounded in Operation Protective Edge. “The entire nation of Israel embraces you and wishes you a speedy recovery,” he told them.
“You were wounded as part of the most important mission there is – defending our home,” he said.
Wounded Soldiers Eager to Return
Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan and IDF Chief Rabbi Rafi Peretz spent Tuesday morning visiting wounded soldiers in Ashkelon’s Barzilai Hospital as well.
Ben-Dahan expressed amazement at the soldiers’ determination, even in the face of the injuries they suffered. Not only were the soldiers not discouraged, he related, they were more determined than ever to return and fight.
“I came to give them encouragement, and I was the one who was encouraged,” he said. “These soldiers, who were injured so recently, already want to return to the battle.
“The bravery and fighting spirit of the young generation are qualities the entire nation of Israel can take pride in,” he continued. “The nation of Israel is determined to continue this operation in order to defend residents of Israel and to bring long-term quiet to residents of the south.”