Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the entire Gaza Strip will be under Israeli security control by the end of the war, and that Israel is open to a temporary ceasefire and a hostage release deal

He spoke at a press conference amid increasing international pressure on the Israeli government, as global experts warn of an imminent famine in the territory.

The World Food Programme said the movement of supplies was under way but that there’d been no aid distribution yet. Israel’s military sent an update that trucks carrying flour, baby food and medical equipment had been transferred into Gaza.

Earlier in the day, the UK’s Development Minister Jenny Chapman accused Israel of using hunger as a “weapon of war”, during a visit to the West Bank.

Tap the link in @BBCNews‘s bio for the latest on the Israel-Gaza war.

(📸 Getty Images)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that Israel aims to establish full security control over the entire Gaza Strip by the end of its ongoing military campaign. In a statement that has drawn significant international attention, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s war objectives remain unchanged: the dismantling of Hamas’ military and governing capabilities, the return of all Israeli hostages, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. Alongside these declarations, he also signaled willingness to engage in a temporary ceasefire, provided it is part of a negotiated agreement that includes the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The statements come at a pivotal moment in the conflict, as Israeli forces intensify operations in Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza and one of the last remaining Hamas strongholds. Netanyahu’s remarks reflect both the military strategy currently underway and the political calculus behind Israel’s war aims. The push for total security control in Gaza represents a significant escalation in policy, suggesting that Israel envisions a long-term presence, even after active hostilities cease.

“Our objective is clear,” Netanyahu said during a press briefing. “Gaza must never again be a launching pad for terror. This requires a complete dismantling of Hamas’ infrastructure and ensuring that no external security threats can arise from the Strip. Israeli security control is a necessary component of a post-war Gaza.”

Security Control and Its Implications

The concept of Israeli security control over Gaza is not entirely new, but the clarity and forcefulness of Netanyahu’s statement mark a turning point. Since Israel’s unilateral withdrawal from the Gaza Strip in 2005, the territory has been under de facto control of Hamas, which seized power in 2007 after a violent conflict with the Palestinian Authority. Israel has maintained a blockade, along with Egypt, citing security concerns, but has not exercised direct governance or military control inside Gaza.

Netanyahu’s declaration implies that post-war Gaza will not be returned to its previous status quo. This raises questions about who will govern Gaza in the aftermath, what form Israel’s security presence will take, and how the international community will respond. Some analysts suggest this could mean a demilitarized buffer zone, frequent Israeli military patrols, or even the reestablishment of permanent Israeli checkpoints and monitoring systems within the territory.

Palestinian officials and international human rights organizations have reacted with concern. They warn that long-term Israeli control could violate international law and undermine efforts to achieve a two-state solution. Moreover, critics argue that an enduring Israeli military presence in Gaza could deepen resentment, fuel future cycles of violence, and prevent the rebuilding of civilian infrastructure.

Temporary Ceasefire and Hostage Deal

In contrast to the firm stance on security control, Netanyahu showed a more flexible tone regarding the humanitarian crisis and hostage negotiations. Israel, he said, is open to a temporary ceasefire that would allow for the release of Israeli hostages and the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He stressed, however, that such a ceasefire would be contingent on meaningful concessions from Hamas, including the release of dozens of hostages believed to still be held in Gaza since the group’s October 7 attack that killed over 1,200 people in Israel.

“We are open to a deal — not at any cost, but a deal that returns our people and advances our goals,” Netanyahu said. “We want every hostage home. That is non-negotiable. If Hamas is serious, they will come to the table with real offers, not delaying tactics.”

International mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have been working to broker a deal. Reports suggest that talks have stalled over key issues such as the length of the ceasefire, the identity and number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for hostages, and the guarantees of future security arrangements.

The United States has voiced cautious support for Israel’s position. Secretary of State Antony Blinken reiterated Washington’s backing of Israel’s right to self-defense, while also urging restraint and highlighting the need for a sustainable humanitarian response. “We support efforts that lead to the return of hostages and a cessation of violence that enables aid to flow. But any long-term resolution must also address Palestinian aspirations for dignity and statehood,” Blinken said.

Humanitarian Concerns and Global Reaction

The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate as fighting intensifies, especially in the south. The United Nations and various NGOs have warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe, with hundreds of thousands of displaced civilians lacking access to clean water, food, and medical care. Rafah, in particular, has seen an influx of internally displaced people who fled from northern Gaza earlier in the war.

Netanyahu’s assertion of complete Israeli control over Gaza has sparked concern among international observers. European Union leaders, the Arab League, and several UN officials have called for a cessation of hostilities, protection of civilians, and a renewed commitment to a political solution. The fear is that prolonged occupation or control, even if limited to security matters, will destabilize the region further and sabotage any chance of peace negotiations.

Looking Ahead

As the war in Gaza continues with no definitive end in sight, Netanyahu’s statement lays out a vision of security dominance and conditional diplomacy. The path forward is fraught with risks — militarily, diplomatically, and morally. While the idea of eradicating Hamas’ ability to wage war may resonate with many Israelis, the broader consequences of indefinite control over Gaza remain deeply contested.

Ultimately, whether Israel’s dual approach — firm military control paired with conditional ceasefires — will bring lasting peace or sow the seeds of future unrest depends largely on what follows the current military campaign: who will govern Gaza, how the international community will respond, and whether Palestinians are granted a path to self-determination alongside Israel’s security concerns.