Israel wants to maintain permanent military presence in Gaza buffer zone

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz affirmed the country’s intention to maintain a permanent Israel Defense Forces (IDF) presence in a peripheral security zone within Gaza, which he said is aimed at preventing attacks on Israeli communities and stopping the smuggling of weapons into the territory.

Speaking ahead of a cabinet meeting on August 5, Katz made the remarks from the “Ridge 70” post in the Gaza buffer zone, Caliber.Az reports via Israeli media. 

“We must ensure the safety and security of Israeli communities by maintaining a permanent IDF presence in a peripheral security zone at strategic points in Gaza, from which attacks on communities and the smuggling of weapons into Gaza can be prevented.”

Katz also outlined his position regarding the broader goals of the ongoing conflict:

“The defeat of Hamas in Gaza, while creating the conditions for the return of the hostages, are the main objectives of the war in Gaza, and we must take all necessary actions to achieve them.”

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed a security discussion took place on August 5 lasting approximately three hours, during which IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir presented various operational options for continuing the campaign in Gaza. Reports indicate that Netanyahu intended to seek cabinet approval during the meeting for a plan involving full occupation of the Gaza Strip, despite reservations voiced by senior military officials.

Speakingt ahead of the meeting, Katz emphasised the role of the military in executing government policy, stating that "once the political leadership makes the necessary decisions, the military echelon, as it has done in all fronts of war so far, will professionally implement the determined policy."

By Sabina Mammadli