Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu addressed the nation in a televised press conference Monday night, saying that Israel must be prepared for a long mission in Gaza, as the operation would not be over until all the terror tunnels are destroyed.
"There is no war more just than this one," he said. "We will not end the operation in Gaza without neutralizing the terror tunnels."
Shortly before Netanyahu's speech, an infiltration attempt by Hamas terrorists was foiled by the IDF. Five terrorists were killed trying to enter Kibbutz Nahal Oz near the Gaza border. At least four Israelis were killed and several others injured in a separate incident Monday in which a mortar shell hit the Eshkol region.
"Hamas is a cruel enemy, not only to us, but to their own citizens," Netanyahu continued. "They have rejected numerous cease-fires. We are prepared for an extended operation."
Earlier on Monday Netanyahu slammed a UN Security Council statement calling for an immediate humanitarian cease-fire in Gaza, saying during a phone conversation with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon that the statement addresses the needs of a murderous terrorist organization, but not those of Israel.
Israel accepted a UN request for a humanitarian cease-fire three times, he said, while Hamas violated each one.
Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon, speaking after Netanyahu, echoed the premier, saying Israel will not hesitate to expand its actions against Hamas in a manner that will harm the terror organization.
He stressed that Israel would not compromise the security of its citizens.
"We won't be deterred from fighting for our home and citizens," he said in a press conference.
Ya'alon vowed that quiet would be returned to the citizens of Israel, although he noted that the military's campaign in Gaza could be prolonged.
IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Benny Gantz wrapped up the conference, saying the IDF was making "excellent" progress in its operations in Gaza, which he said would continue for as long as needed.
Gantz said the IDF was taking all possible measures not to cause civilian casualties in Gaza, but reiterated Israel's warning for Palestinian civilians to distance themselves from the areas where Hamas is operating.
Turning to the Israeli front, the IDF chief called for public support to remain strong. "I have no doubt we can succeed," he stressed.