Netanyahu says Israel will occupy Gaza even if Hamas accepts ceasefire deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that even if Hamas agrees to a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal, Israeli forces will take control of Gaza.

Speaking to Sky News Australia on Thursday, Netanyahu said the war in Gaza was nearing its final phase, according to the Middle East Monitor.

“We are close to ending the war in Gaza. We will continue to control Gaza, even if Hamas agrees to a last-minute ceasefire agreement,” he was quoted as saying.

“The war could end today if Hamas lays down its weapons and releases the remaining hostages,” he added.

Netanyahu reiterated that Israel’s objectives in the war include freeing all captives, disarming Hamas, and dismantling the group’s final strongholds -- goals he described as essential for achieving lasting peace.

“My goal is not to occupy Gaza, but to give it and Israel a different future, and I believe we are close to achieving that,” he said.

He also said US President Donald Trump fully supports his military goal of controlling Gaza City to eliminate Hamas.