Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted that Israel’s goal is to “free Gaza from Hamas” rather than occupy the enclave, even as his government approved a plan for the military to take control of Gaza City.
In a statement on X, Netanyahu said Gaza would be “demilitarized” and governed by “a peaceful civilian administration” unlinked to Hamas, the Palestinian Authority, or “any other terrorist organization.”
He argued that this would help secure the release of hostages and prevent future threats to Israel.
The remarks came during a phone call with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, in which Netanyahu expressed “disappointment” over Germany’s suspension of arms exports to Israel.
“Instead of supporting Israel’s just war against Hamas… Germany is rewarding Hamas terrorism by embargoing arms to Israel,” his office said.
According to the Prime Minister’s Office, the political-security cabinet’s newly approved plan will see the Israel Defense Forces prepare to seize Gaza City while providing humanitarian aid to civilians outside combat zones.
The move drew sharp criticism from Belgium, where Deputy Prime Minister Maxime Prevot summoned the Israeli ambassador to protest.
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In a post on X, Prevot condemned the “continued colonization” of Palestinian territories and warned that Israel’s actions risk “wiping Palestine completely off the map” while endangering Israeli hostages still in captivity.
He urged a reversal of the plans, saying they would “permanently compromise any prospect of a ceasefire.”
The announcement signals a significant escalation in Israel’s nearly two-year campaign against Hamas and highlights mounting tensions with European partners over the conduct of the conflict.
