Israel ready to expel Gaza population, says defence minister

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Gaza today, refusing to pull back troops despite mediator efforts to advance a US-backed ceasefire plan. This was Netanyahu's first trip to the war-torn territory since the ceasefire took effect in October 2025. Speaking near the "Yellow Line" that separates Israeli and Hamas-controlled areas, Netanyahu declared, "We control the area.

We are not retreating. We are staying on this line." He emphasized Israel's control over 60% of the Strip, stating, "We are eliminating the terrorists who threaten us, day in and day out." Netanyahu's visit comes as international calls for a more advanced stage of the US-led peace plan have not deterred Israel's ongoing strikes on Gaza.

Netanyahu, under pressure from upcoming elections, has vowed to continue the military campaign until Hamas is disarmed. Yesterday, Israel reported capturing Hamas' internal security chief during a ground operation, though the Palestinian health ministry reported at least four deaths. Defending their actions, Netanyahu said, "We are doing everything to reach our goal - disarming Hamas and demilitarising Gaza.

Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel." Defense Minister Israel Katz hinted at plans to remove Palestinians from Gaza, though he emphasized the need for the United States to determine the destination, stating, "There is no real solution for Gaza in the end without this migration." Critics argue that forced displacement of civilians in occupied territory is a war crime.

Since the ceasefire took effect, Israeli operations have resulted in at least 1,334 Palestinian deaths, according to Palestinian health officials, while Israel reports five of its own soldiers killed and one civilian contractor.