Israel PM Netanyahu threatens to open 'gates of hell' if Hamas doesn't return all hostages

Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday (February 16) that his nation will open “gates of hell” in Gaza if Hamas does not return all hostages.

Netanyahu was speaking alongside US Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Jerusalem.

The Israeli leader also thanked US President Donald Trump for his assistance in the release of three more hostages on Saturday.

He added that Israel was working “in full cooperation and full coordination” with the Trump administration over Gaza.

“We have a common strategy and we can’t always share details of this strategy with the public,” he said, adding that he “can’t share when the gates of hell will be opened, as they surely will if all our hostages are not released until the last one of them.”

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Netanyahu added that the USA’s “unequivocal support” will help Israel achieve its goals.

‘Israel to eliminate Hamas’ rule in Gaza’

The Israeli PM also vowed to end Hamas’ political and military might in Gaza.

“We will eliminate Hamas’s military capability and its political rule in Gaza,” said the Israeli PM.

He added that he also eyes “finishing the job” against Iran, with full support from America.

“Over the last 16 months, Israel has dealt a mighty blow to Iran’s terror access under the strong leadership of President (Donald) Trump and with your unflinching support, I have no doubt that we can and will finish the job.” Netanyahu said, adding “Israel and America stand shoulder to shoulder in countering the threat of Iran.”

‘There can never be a nuclear Iran’

Rubio meanwhile affirmed that there can never be a nuclear Iran, adding that the Shi’ite nation was the “single greatest source” of instability in the region.

“There can never be a nuclear Iran, a nuclear Iran that could then hold itself immune from pressure and from action. That can never happen,” said Rubio at the joint press conference.

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Rubio also vowed that Hamas “must be eliminated”.

“Hamas cannot continue as a military or a government force… they must be eliminated,” he added.

(With inputs from agencies)