Netanyahu says Gaza 'under control', vows to complete Hamas disarmament
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PRIYANKA JAISWAL
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to maintain Israeli military control over significant portions of the Gaza Strip, rejecting calls for withdrawal. He insists that operations will continue until Hamas is fully disarmed and the territory is demilitarized.
Netanyahu Reaffirms Military Strategy in Gaza
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently conducted a high-profile visit to the Gaza Strip, marking his first appearance in the war-shattered territory since the ceasefire agreement of October 2025. During this visit, he explicitly countered domestic political pressure, specifically referencing opposition from figures like Benny Gantz, to emphasize that Israel’s military stance remains steadfast. By asserting that Israel currently controls approximately 60 percent of the Strip, Netanyahu has signaled a clear rejection of withdrawal demands, framing the presence of Israeli forces as a non-negotiable component of national security.
The Strategic Objective: Disarmament and Demilitarization
The core of Netanyahu’s message centers on the long-term objectives of the conflict: the complete disarmament of Hamas and the total demilitarization of the Gaza Strip. These goals represent a shift from purely tactical military engagements to a broader strategic vision that aims to fundamentally alter the security landscape of the region. By maintaining a physical presence along what has been termed the 'Yellow Line,' Israel is attempting to solidify its administrative and security reach, effectively creating a buffer zone that prevents Hamas from regrouping.
Political Friction and Domestic Opposition
Netanyahu’s insistence on holding the line highlights deep-seated fractures within the Israeli political establishment. His public rebuke of those who advocated for an earlier withdrawal underscores the tension between military-led security approaches and diplomatic pressure exerted by international mediators. This friction suggests that the Israeli government is prioritizing its stated war aims over the immediate implementation of broader US-brokered ceasefire frameworks, which often include provisions for troop pullbacks that the current administration deems premature.
Implications of Continued Presence
The decision to remain in Gaza despite international calls for a ceasefire poses significant geopolitical challenges. By controlling 60 percent of the territory, Israel is effectively managing the logistical and humanitarian complexities of the region, which increases the burden on its military and administrative resources. This posture implies that Israel is prepared for a prolonged occupation or an extended security-focused presence, which could complicate future negotiations regarding governance and reconstruction of the area.
Looking Ahead: The Path to Stability
As the situation evolves, the 'Yellow Line' serves as a critical marker of Israel's current operational reality. The commitment to 'complete the work' indicates that further military actions are likely, as the government seeks to eliminate any remaining infrastructure capable of threatening Israeli borders. Moving forward, the effectiveness of this strategy will depend on whether this military control can translate into a stable security environment or if it will lead to continued friction with both regional actors and the international community demanding a sustainable path toward peace.