According to a report by The Times of Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared that Israel’s expanded military operation in Gaza is not aimed at occupation, but at removing Hamas from power and ensuring long-term security.
Speaking at a press conference for foreign media in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said the newly approved plan to take over Gaza City seeks to “free Gaza” while maintaining Israel’s “overriding security responsibility.”
“Our goal is not to occupy Gaza. Our goal is to free Gaza, free it from Hamas terrorists,” Netanyahu stated. He outlined a postwar vision in which Gaza would be demilitarized, a security zone would be created along the border to prevent future attacks, and a civilian administration—willing to live in peace with Israel—would take over governance.
Netanyahu laid out five principles for ending the war: Hamas must be disarmed, all hostages freed, Gaza demilitarized, Israel retaining overriding security control, and a non-Israeli peaceful civilian administration established. He stressed that the Palestinian Authority is not a viable option, accusing it of encouraging terrorism.
“That’s our plan,” Netanyahu said. “Given Hamas’s refusal to lay down its arms, Israel has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas.”
The prime minister’s comments come amid heightened military activity and political debate over Israel’s intentions in Gaza. The new operational plan represents one of the most significant escalations since the start of the conflict, with the aim of dismantling Hamas’s military capabilities and governance structure in the enclave.
Earlier in the day, the Israel Defense Forces reported that two rockets fired from Gaza struck open areas, causing no injuries. The attacks underscore the ongoing volatility, even as international actors push for a negotiated resolution.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum urged Netanyahu to prioritize the plight of Israeli captives in Gaza, warning that the opportunity for a deal could soon close. “The prime minister must use press conferences to reiterate commitment to a hostage deal before it is too late,” the group stated.
While Netanyahu’s address was designed to reassure both domestic and international audiences that Israel does not intend to permanently control Gaza.
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