Netanyahu: Defeating Hamas is more important than returning captives

Israeli Occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sparked outrage after declaring that defeating Hamas takes precedence over the return of the "Israeli" captives still held in Gaza.

Speaking at an Independence Day event, Netanyahu said the release of the captives was “a very important goal,” but insisted that “there is a superior goal.”

“The supreme objective is victory over our enemies, and this we will achieve,” he stated, according to The Times of Israel and other "Israeli" media.

The comments drew sharp criticism from families of the captives, many of whom have accused Netanyahu’s government of sidelining efforts to secure the captives’ release in favor of pursuing its military campaign.

According to Israeli Occupation authorities, 24 hostages are still alive in Gaza, while the bodies of 35 others are believed to be held by Hamas.

One mother, whose son is among the captives, reportedly said she now wants to remove Netanyahu from office in order to secure her son's freedom.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which has been vocal in calling for a deal to bring back the captives, expressed shock in a statement.

“The return of the abductees should be no less important, and also a top priority for the Israeli government,” the group said.