by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sent a message to hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, assuring them, “We have not forgotten you.” His remarks were broadcast into Gaza via loudspeakers along the border on Friday, in what his office described as an “informational effort.”
The address comes as Netanyahu presses ahead with a contentious settlement drive. Earlier this month, he signed off on plans to expand settlements in the West Bank, dismissing the possibility of a future Palestinian state.
“There will not be a Palestinian state,” he declared during a visit to Maale Adumim settlement, pledging to “safeguard our heritage, our land and our security” and to double the community’s population.
Israel’s Higher Planning Committee granted final approval in August for the E1 settlement project, located east of Jerusalem. The plan, debated for more than two decades, had been frozen under pressure from past US administrations.
The renewed push comes as Israel escalates its military campaign in Gaza City while simultaneously expanding settlements in the West Bank — developments the international community largely views as violations of international law.
Israel seized the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza during the 1967 Six-Day War. Palestinians claim these territories as the foundation of their hoped-for independent state. Many world powers warn that further annexation would extinguish chances for a two-state solution, long seen as the most viable path to ending the conflict.
Netanyahu is expected at the White House on Monday, marking his fourth visit to Washington since the start of President Trump’s second term.