UN's Gaza report biased, based on Hamas numbers: Israeli envoy Reuven Azar

In an exclusive interview with India Today, Israel's Ambassador to India Reuven Azar discussed the escalating conflict in West Asia, Israel's military strategies, UN's Gaza report and more. Addressing the recent wave of retaliatory strikes between Iran and the United States, Azar stated that Iran's Revolutionary Guards are attempting to control international waterways like the Strait of Hormuz. He emphasised that Israel has successfully removed the military nuclear and ballistic missile threats from Iran. Responding to allegations of war crimes and a UN report citing high Palestinian child casualties, Azar dismissed the findings, stating, 'This report is not independent and, you know, is not impartial.' He argued that the casualty figures rely on Hamas data, which includes child combatants and natural deaths. Azar maintained that Israel targets Hamas operatives who hide behind civilians, adding, 'If we would have done it indiscriminately, there would be no Gaza.' He confirmed Israel's willingness to withdraw from Gaza if Hamas is dismantled and expressed hope for regional peace through diplomacy and cooperation with the United States.