Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly stated that Israeli troops will not pull out from Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed, dismissing a US-supported proposal that ties military withdrawal to a broader peace accord. The Israeli stance comes amid intelligence reports suggesting that Hamas is actively recruiting fighters, rebuilding its military capacities, and replenishing its arsenal. Israeli authorities argue that a premature troop withdrawal would enable Hamas to regain control over Gaza and pose renewed security threats.
The US-brokered ceasefire framework proposes several steps, including the disarmament of Hamas, dismantling of its tunnel networks, a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the establishment of a Palestinian technocratic administration. The plan also calls for the deployment of an international security force and the reconstruction of Gaza. However, the Israeli government remains adamant that Hamas must completely surrender its weapons before any military withdrawal can be considered.
In recent days, Israeli airstrikes have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 17 individuals, including children. Separately, a mass funeral was held by Palestinians after rescue teams retrieved more than 100 bodies from the site of a significant Israeli airstrike in Gaza City’s Sabra neighborhood. The strike occurred in November 2023, and recovery operations are still underway as many victims are believed to be trapped beneath the debris.
The conflict has been ongoing since the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on southern Israel, which left approximately 1,200 people dead and led to the abduction of 251 hostages. This attack marked the beginning of the current war in Gaza, as both sides continue to clash amid international efforts to broker a ceasefire and establish lasting peace in the region.