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Retired Navy Senior Chief Petty Officer Rob O’Neill, known for his pivotal role in the operation that killed Osama Bin Laden, has praised Israel’s recent military actions against Hamas, particularly the elimination of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar.
Speaking to NewsMax, O’Neill asserted that Israel is “showing [the US] how to win a war” through its strategic targeting of key militant figures.
O’Neill’s comments come in the wake of Sinwar’s death, which he emphasized as a significant blow to Hamas. He stated, “This is huge for them,” referring to the operational impact of removing such a high-profile leader.
O’Neill, a former member of SEAL Team Six, noted that Sinwar’s demise would likely incapacitate many of Hamas’s capabilities, disrupting the organization’s leadership and coordination.
In his remarks, O’Neill expressed admiration for the Israeli military’s approach, emphasizing that Sinwar’s last moments were likely spent witnessing the Israeli flag.
He highlighted the importance of having soldiers carry out such operations, suggesting that it reflects a commitment to effective military engagement rather than reliance on aerial strikes alone.
“And just like the rest of them, you know, he died running away afraid. And the good guys finally caught up to him,” he added, framing the operation as a moral victory.
Amid rising calls for a ceasefire in Gaza, O’Neill criticized the international community’s response to Israel’s military actions.
He noted that while US President Joe Biden has called for discussions regarding a ceasefire, O’Neill argued that the timing is inappropriate.
“What Israel is doing right now is they’re showing us how to win a war,” he said, emphasizing that the elimination of top leaders is crucial to achieving long-term security.
Biden’s comments on Friday, which acknowledged the need to consider the future of Gaza after Sinwar’s death, reflect a complex landscape in US foreign policy.
The President stated, “We’re going to work out what is the day after now,” indicating a focus on securing the region and moving forward.
O’Neill, however, warned against the notion of negotiating a ceasefire while Hamas continues its aggressive actions, asserting that one cannot initiate a conflict and then seek an immediate resolution.
O’Neill’s critique extended to the US’s relationship with Qatar, which he described as a “supposed ally.” He urged for a more stringent approach toward Qatar, particularly concerning its alleged support for Hamas.
“That’s where Hamas, the last two billionaire leaders of Hamas — they should round these dudes up and give them to Israel right now,” he remarked, suggesting that Qatar’s role in the region warrants greater scrutiny.
As the conflict in Gaza continues to unfold, O’Neill’s comments underscore a growing tension between military action and diplomatic efforts.
The US’s balancing act of supporting Israel while addressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza remains a contentious issue, with calls for a ceasefire growing louder amidst ongoing violence.
O’Neill’s perspective highlights a divide in opinions regarding the best path forward, as Israel continues its campaign against Hamas in pursuit of stability in the region.