In a bold speech earlier this week at the West Bank settlement of Beit El, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz made it clear: Israel will never fully withdraw from the Gaza Strip or from Syria, and is already planning fresh settlements in northern Gaza. 🏘️
Katz announced plans to establish Nahal settlement groups – military-backed nuclei that can later grow into civilian communities – "in the right way, at the right time," though he didn't specify a timeline. These new settlements are meant to replace those evacuated during Israel's 2005 disengagement from Gaza.
He emphasized, "We are deep inside Gaza and will never leave all of Gaza, there will be no such thing." This stance comes despite a ceasefire that took effect this October 10, which has not completely halted near-daily Israeli operations and building demolitions in areas where troops remain deployed.
On Syria, Katz was equally firm, dismissing U.S.-brokered talks and declaring, "We don't trust anyone … no agreement. We will not withdraw even by a millimeter in Syria." Israel first moved into a buffer zone in southwestern Syria in December 2024 and later took control of the peak of Mount Hermon, solidifying its foothold.
As tensions persist, Katz's statements underline a long-term strategic shift. For Gaza's residents and neighboring states, the message is clear: Israel is here to stay, and its next moves are already on the map. 🌍🔍
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Israeli defense minister says Israel will not fully withdraw from Gaza
cgtn.com
