Israel will indefinitely retain its military presence in war-torn Gaza as well as parts of Lebanon and Syria, signaling a hardening stance that could complicate ceasefire talks with Hamas.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on Wednesday that the country will no longer relinquish control over territories it has occupied. “Unlike the past, we will not give up the strategic zones we now hold,” he stated, hinting at a long-term shift in policy.
According to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), nearly 30% of Gaza has already been turned into a “security zone.” Israeli troops are also expected to remain stationed in designated areas of Syria and Lebanon under both temporary and permanent arrangements.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to eliminating Hamas and securing the release of 59 hostages—24 of whom Israel believes are still alive. However, Hamas has maintained that no captives will be released unless Israeli forces fully withdraw from Gaza and agree to a permanent ceasefire.
Israel has formally annexed East Jerusalem and Syria’s Golan Heights, and it continues to occupy the West Bank, home to over 3 million Palestinians and 500,000 Israeli settlers.
Palestinian, Lebanese, and Syrian authorities have denounced Israel’s continued military deployment as a violation of international law and an act of occupation.
LND/BG
