![Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu meets with soldiers stationed near the Gaza Strip in Jerusalem on October 18, 2023. [Avi Ohayon (GPO) - Anadolu Agency]](https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/AA-20231019-32460234-32460232-BENJAMIN_NETANYAHU_MEETS_WITH_SOLDIERS_NEAR_GAZA_STRIP-1.jpg)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged that Israel has not yet achieved its goal of ending Hamas’ civilian rule in the Gaza Strip, but said it would eventually do so. His remarks came as reports indicate that the Israeli military is expanding its control over Gaza. Netanyahu previously said he had instructed the army to increase its control to 70 per cent of the territory, up from the current 60 per cent, a move that conflicts with the ceasefire agreement brokered by the administration of US President Donald Trump in October 2025. Speaking about the proposed “voluntary migration” plan for Gaza’s residents, Netanyahu said the proposal remains under consideration. Israeli media have reported that officials have decided to replace […]