Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has doubled down on his government’s uncompromising stance on the Gaza conflict, affirming plans for full military and political control over the territory.
He also rejected ongoing rumours of a political rift with US President Donald Trump amid shifting regional dynamics.
During a press briefing in West Jerusalem on Wednesday, Netanyahu reiterated that no agreement had been made to end the war and ruled out the possibility of negotiations with Hamas under current terms.
He insisted that Israel would not retreat until three key objectives are met: the return of all Israeli hostages, the elimination of Hamas leadership in Gaza, and the group’s total disarmament.
“We believe at least 20 hostages are still alive in Gaza, with another 38 possibly killed,” Netanyahu said, countering offers from Hamas for a prisoner exchange tied to a ceasefire and withdrawal of Israeli forces.
The Israeli leadership has refused those conditions, viewing them as unacceptable and contrary to long-term national security interests.
Looking beyond the war, Netanyahu hinted at the implementation of a broader strategic framework based on the Trump-era Middle East policy, often interpreted as encouraging significant demographic and territorial shifts in Gaza.
Though details remain vague, the implication of a post-conflict political realignment has raised concerns among international observers and rights organisations.
The press conference also addressed swirling speculation over Netanyahu’s relationship with the Trump administration, particularly after Trump’s recent Middle East tour excluded Israel.
Trump visited key US partners in the Gulf—Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar—where major economic and defense deals were signed.
The absence of Israel in the itinerary triggered speculation about a cooling of ties between the two allies.
Netanyahu, breaking his silence on the matter, relayed what he said was a direct message from Trump: “Bibi, I want you to know I am fully committed to you and to the State of Israel.”
He also referenced a separate conversation with US Vice President J.D. Vance, who reportedly reassured him to “ignore fake news about any rupture” in the U.S.-Israel alliance.
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The comments come amid mounting global criticism of Israel’s ongoing blockade of Gaza, now in its 11th week.
Humanitarian agencies have warned of a deepening crisis, as food, medical supplies, and fuel remain scarce in the densely populated enclave.
While the Biden administration has publicly urged a swift resolution to the conflict and expressed concern for civilian casualties, Netanyahu’s latest statements suggest that Israel is prepared for a prolonged campaign, prioritising its military objectives over international calls for de-escalation.
