Netanyahu: Israel Won't Withdraw From Gaza Until Hamas Disarms

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected any premature Israeli withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, insisting that Hamas must lay down all its arms first. In a video posted to his Facebook page, Netanyahu stated, “We won’t retreat from the current lines until Hamas lays down all of its arms.”

He further emphasized that Israeli forces would be permitted to take all necessary actions to ensure their safety, protect Israeli territory, and safeguard citizens. This stance comes amid ongoing discussions and proposals concerning the future of Gaza and the conflict with Hamas.

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We won’t retreat from the current lines until Hamas lays down all of its arms.

Netanyahu also addressed a draft proposal sent by the White House concerning Hamas's disarmament. While confirming receipt of the document, he clarified that Israel had not accepted it in its current form and had returned it with specific comments. This indicates a divergence in approach or specific concerns Israel holds regarding the proposed terms.

Earlier, Nickolay Mladenov, Director-General of the Board of Peace (BoP) and High Representative for Gaza, met with Netanyahu. Sources indicated Mladenov requested a halt to all IDF strikes against Hamas to initiate a 14-day ceasefire aimed at demilitarizing the organization. The BoP described the meeting as constructive, sharing a common objective of decommissioning weapons in Gaza and transitioning to civilian governance. However, Israel had previously turned down a request for IDF forces' removal from Gaza.

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We will allow IDF troops to do everything necessary to protect themselves, protect our territory, and protect our citizens.