According to a report by Al-Jazeera on Sunday, June 21, 2026, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has defended the conduct of Israel’s military operations, asserting that no armed force does more to reduce civilian casualties during warfare than the Israeli military.
In a statement released on social media, Netanyahu said Israel remains committed to minimizing harm to non-combatants despite the ongoing conflicts in the region. He also accused critics of spreading misinformation about Israel’s military actions.
“No military takes more measures to minimize civilian casualties than the Israeli military,” Netanyahu stated. “No nation is attacked by more propaganda than Israel.”
The Israeli leader expressed confidence that Israel’s position would ultimately be vindicated, adding: “Truth and Israel will prevail.”
Netanyahu’s remarks come at a time of increasing international scrutiny over Israel’s military operations, particularly in Lebanon and Gaza. Human rights organizations, foreign governments and international observers have repeatedly raised concerns about the humanitarian consequences of the conflicts and the growing number of civilian casualties.
The criticism has extended to some of Israel’s closest allies. Reports indicate that United States President Donald Trump has voiced concern over the high civilian death toll resulting from military operations in Lebanon, adding to mounting pressure on the Israeli government to reduce civilian suffering and pursue diplomatic solutions.
According to Lebanon’s Health Ministry, Israeli attacks carried out since March 2 have resulted in the deaths of at least 4,057 people and left 12,121 others injured. The ministry says women and children account for a significant portion of the casualties. The figures have intensified calls from humanitarian groups for greater protection of civilians and stricter adherence to international humanitarian law.
The conflict in Gaza has also remained a major source of controversy and international debate. Palestinian health authorities report that at least 73,018 people have been killed and approximately 173,273 wounded since the start of Israel’s military campaign in the territory. The scale of the destruction and loss of life has prompted widespread condemnation from various international organizations and governments.
Israel continues to reject allegations that its military deliberately targets civilians. Government officials argue that armed groups often operate from densely populated areas, making military operations more complex and increasing the risk of civilian casualties. Israeli authorities maintain that the military employs various measures, including warnings and evacuation notices, to reduce harm to civilians.
