In a closed-door session with the Foreign and Security Committee, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu disclosed on Tuesday that Israel is actively preparing for the prospect of a conflict with the forces under the governance of Palestinian Authority (PA) President Mahmoud Abbas.
The Israeli leader addressed concerns about potential collaboration between PA forces and Hamas, hinting at a readiness to engage.
When questioned about Israel’s response if PA forces were to coordinate an attack with Hamas against Israeli forces in the West Bank, Netanyahu asserted that considering an assault on PA forces was a viable option.
“We are in discussions about it, and our aim is to establish a scenario where, if such an event occurs, helicopters will be airborne within minutes to mount a swift response,” Netanyahu stated, as reported by Israeli media.
During the closed meeting, Netanyahu emphasized the common goals shared by Hamas and the PA concerning Israel, noting that their differences lie in their respective approaches to achieving these objectives.