Netanyahu Visits Gaza, Claims Control of 60% of Strip

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited the Gaza Strip on Tuesday, accompanied by the IDF Chief of Staff, the head of the Southern Command, commanders, and soldiers. Speaking from within Gaza, Netanyahu stated, "We are not retreating. We are staying on this line, controlling 60% of the strip, and there is more to come." He asserted that Israeli forces control the territory, with views of Israeli towns like Ashkelon, Sderot, Netivot, and kibbutzim visible from the area.

Netanyahu emphasized Israel's ongoing mission to eliminate terrorists threatening the country, noting recent successes. "Yesterday we took out the head of Hamas's security," he said, adding, "We will learn some things from this."

He further elaborated on Israel's objectives in Gaza, stating, "We are doing everything to achieve our goal, which is to disarm Hamas, demilitarize Gaza. Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel." Netanyahu claimed this objective has been largely achieved, though acknowledged there is still work to be done, which Israel will complete.