Netanyahu vows Gaza militants will pay ‘heavy price’

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Tuesday that Gaza militants will pay a “heavy price” for the attacks against Israel, The Associated Press reported. 

In a nationally televised speech to his country Tuesday, Netanyahu said Palestinian militant group Hamas and the Islamic Jihad “have paid, and will pay a heavy price” for their actions towards Israeli citizens.  

Netanyahu said it will take time for Israeli armed forces to complete the mission, according to the AP. 

The escalation comes as tensions has risen between Israel and Palestinians over the Al-Aqsa Mosque as celebrations were taking place during the Muslim holiday of Ramadan. Israeli police forces clashed with worshippers during the weekend. 

Airstrikes by both sides have left at least 26 Palestinians and two Israelis dead in the past 48 hours.

The Hill has reached out to the White House for comment on this situation.