The international spokesperson of the Israel Defense Forces says ground troops will "probably" invade Gaza unless Hamas "surrenders unconditionally".
Lieutenant Colonel Jonathan Conricus did not answer why a ground invasion has been delayed despite days of speculation, instead saying Israeli forces will "dismantle Hamas totally".
"If Hamas were to come out of their hiding places that they hide underneath the Israeli civilians, which is what they're doing now, return our hostages — all 212 of them — and surrender unconditionally, then the war would end," the spokesperson said.
"If they won't, we will probably have to go in and get it done."
Lt. Col. Conricus said people "should take sides... according to your own morals".
"If you want to be on the side of the terrorists or on the side of Israel, that is your choice," he said.
He also answered questions addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Press play to hear the full interview with Raf Epstein on ABC Radio Melbourne.