Israel Shifts Focus To Disarming Hamas In Gaza

Israel has signalled a new phase in its Gaza policy after the recovery of the last hostage held in the Palestinian territory. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel’s priority would now be the complete disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarisation of Gaza, while reiterating opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state in the enclave.

Netanyahu Outlines Post-Hostage Strategy

Addressing a televised press conference, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the return of the final hostage marked the end of the first phase of Israel’s objectives in Gaza. He stated that Israel was now focused on eliminating Hamas’s military capabilities, including weapons stockpiles and underground tunnel networks. Netanyahu stressed that Israel would retain long-term security control over Gaza and the occupied West Bank to prevent future threats.

Ceasefire Framework And Hamas Stance

The US-sponsored Gaza ceasefire plan, which came into effect on October 10, laid out a two-stage process. The first phase involved the release of all hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, while the second phase envisaged the disarmament of Hamas. While Hamas has said the return of the last hostage’s remains showed its commitment to the truce, it has so far refused to agree to laying down arms.

Rejection Of Palestinian Statehood

Netanyahu reiterated that the establishment of a Palestinian state in Gaza would not be allowed, claiming he had repeatedly blocked moves towards a two-state solution. His remarks come amid growing international recognition of Palestinian statehood by several Western countries following the devastation caused by the Gaza war. Israel, however, maintains that full security control “from the Jordan River to the sea” is essential for its safety.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Gaza ceasefire plan includes hostage release and militant disarmament phases.
• Hamas is designated a terrorist organisation by Israel and several Western states.
• The two-state solution refers to Israel and Palestine existing as separate states.
• Gaza and the West Bank are key territories in the Israel–Palestine conflict.

Regional Tensions And Iran Factor

Netanyahu also warned Iran against any direct attack on Israel, saying the country would respond with unprecedented force. His remarks followed heightened regional tensions after the deployment of US naval assets near Iran and recent statements by US President Donald Trump. Iran, led by President Masoud Pezeshkian, has criticised what it called US threats aimed at destabilising the region, underscoring the fragile security environment surrounding the Gaza conflict.