GAZA- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has openly declared that Israel will seize full control of Gaza, even if Hamas agrees to a ceasefire and a hostage deal. His remarks reveal that Israel’s goal is not peace, but the occupation of Palestinian land.

Netanyahu’s statement came as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) launched the first stage of its operation to take Gaza City, which it labels a Hamas stronghold. Speaking to Sky News Australia, he said Israel would expel Hamas regardless of any agreement. “We’re gonna do that anyway. There was never a question,” he said.

He tried to justify his stance by citing US President Donald Trump’s earlier remarks, comparing Hamas in Gaza to Nazis in Germany. Netanyahu also claimed the war could end if Hamas disarmed and surrendered, while dismissing worldwide condemnation as “anti-Semitism.”

Meanwhile, the humanitarian toll continues to mount. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres has again urged an immediate ceasefire, warning that the offensive will cause “massive death and destruction.” The Red Cross and other aid agencies have also called for a halt, as Palestinian deaths in Gaza since October 2023 have surpassed 62,000.

Global frustration with Israel’s actions is growing. Several countries are now preparing to officially recognize the State of Palestine.