Netanyahu Insists Gaza Reconstruction Requires Disarmament, Highlights New Israeli Buffer Zones Inside Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the government's policy on Gaza during a cabinet meeting on Sunday, emphasizing that reconstruction efforts in the Gaza Strip cannot proceed without the disarmament of militant groups. This statement followed reports that the U.S. administration had decided to drop the condition of Hamas disarmament as a prerequisite for Gaza's rehabilitation. Netanyahu neither confirmed nor denied the report but firmly stated that disarmament would still be required.

Netanyahu also stressed that Gaza residents who wish to leave the territory should be allowed to do so freely, while Israel will maintain control over buffer zones within Gaza itself. "There will be no reconstruction in Gaza without the disarmament and demilitarization of the Strip," he said, adding, "There is a new Gaza envelope, inside Gaza."

These remarks come amid a stalemate over the next phase of the U.S. plan for Gaza, which includes dismantling Hamas's military infrastructure and establishing a technocratic Palestinian governing body under international supervision. Despite the plan's announcement earlier this year, the disarmament issue remains a major point of contention. Meanwhile, Israel has expanded the area it controls inside Gaza, reportedly holding about 64% of the territory as of late May, up from 53% under the ceasefire agreement.

Netanyahu also addressed reports that U.S. President Donald Trump pressured Israel not to act against Hezbollah tunnels in Lebanon, calling such claims "fake news." He affirmed that Israel operates based on its own strategic considerations. This statement followed an Israeli military operation that destroyed a Hezbollah tunnel near the Lebanese border, which contained hundreds of weapons and launchers.

Turning to domestic politics, Netanyahu criticized his political opponents and the Israeli media, accusing them of falsely presenting themselves as right-wing while holding left-wing views. He recounted cabinet discussions where some members advocated accepting Hamas's demands and delaying Gaza operations, which he rejected, warning that such concessions would strengthen Iran's regional influence. Netanyahu contrasted his government's policies with the previous administration's, highlighting Israel's assertive stance compared to their perceived weakness, especially regarding Lebanon and Hezbollah.