Hamas: We determine security of Israelis living near Gaza

The remarks from Hamas spokesman Sami Abu Zuhri came after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he had guaranteed the safety of Israelis in the border region through the destruction of Hamas tunnels in the area and through the killing of Palestinian military leaders.
 
Abu Zuhri, however, denounced Netanyahu's claims, calling the statement a "lie" and insisting that it is Hamas that determines the security of Israelis in the region, "not Netanyahu."
 
Abu Zuhri's words seem designed to undermine confidence in Netanyahu among the Israeli public by stressing the movement's continued military capabilities.
 
The statement comes amid a widespread debate over the outcome of Israel's summer offensive on Gaza that left more than 2,000 dead and devastated the tiny enclave's infrastructure.
 
The Israeli prime minister's government has sought to assure the public that the assault -- which also cost the lives of more than 60 Israeli soldiers -- was a victory for Israel, but polls show a majority are skeptical.
 
Many Palestinians, meanwhile, have celebrated the performance of their military factions as a victory, highlighting the strong resistance Israeli forces faced as they invaded Gaza.
 
Additionally, many note the concessions gained by the Palestinians in the long-term ceasefire agreement, when Israel promised to "ease" its seven-year siege and curtail limits on Gaza fisherman and agriculture in the border zone.
 
More than a month after the end of fighting, however, Israel has failed to uphold its promises, and circumstances have only marginally improved on the ground in Gaza.