Defence minister: Israel will never leave Gaza

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz has signaled the country will retain a military presence in Gaza, even under the terms of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, emphasising the creation of a security buffer. 

Speaking at the National Education Conference of Bnei Akiva Yeshivas and Ulpanot Center and in remarks to Makor Rishon newspaper, Katz asserted that Israel will not fully withdraw from Gaza territory, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media. 

"Israel will never leave Gaza territory. There will be a security strip surrounding inside Gaza to protect the settlements," he noted.

He reiterated that any future disarmament of Hamas, as outlined in US President Donald Trump’s proposed plan, would be enforced by Israel if necessary.

Katz also claimed that Israel has effectively “won” in Gaza, framing the ongoing military and security measures as part of a strategy to safeguard civilian populations and maintain regional stability.

By Sabina Mammadli