In an interview with CBS News, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu admitted that his country has not been successful in minimizing civilian casualties inside the Gaza Strip. The statement comes amid an ongoing conflict between Israel and the militant group Hamas.

Netanyahu expressed his concern over the loss of civilian lives, stating that "any civilian death is a tragedy." He also stressed that Israel is making every effort to protect civilians and ensure their safety. "We shouldn't have any [civilian casualties] because we're doing everything we can to get the civilians out of harm's way, while Hamas is doing everything to keep them in harm's way," Netanyahu added.

The Prime Minister highlighted the measures taken by Israel to warn and evacuate civilians before military operations. He mentioned that leaflets were distributed and cell phone calls were made to urge Palestinians to leave dangerous areas. Netanyahu emphasized that many Palestinians have heeded these warnings and left. However, he blamed Hamas for obstructing the safe corridors and firing at them, endangering innocent lives.

Netanyahu also acknowledged the challenges in achieving minimal civilian casualties in the ongoing conflict. "We'll try to finish that job with minimal civilian casualties. That's what we're trying to do, minimal civilian casualties. But unfortunately, we're not successful," he stated.

The Palestinian Ministry of Health, which is run by Hamas, claims that more than 10,000 civilians have been killed in Gaza since the war began on October 7. They also reported that Hamas has killed over 1,200 Israelis and taken around 240 people captive.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has sparked international concern, with calls for an immediate ceasefire and efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in the region. The United Nations and various countries have urged both Israel and Hamas to prioritize the safety of civilians and work towards a peaceful resolution.

As the conflict continues, the world remains hopeful for a swift end to the violence and an eventual peace agreement that safeguards the lives and wellbeing of all those impacted by the crisis.