Chicago – August 05, 2026
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israeli forces will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas has been completely disarmed, reaffirming Israel’s position as efforts to negotiate a ceasefire continue. Speaking during a public address, Netanyahu stated that ending Hamas’ military capabilities remains a central objective of Israel’s security strategy.
He said any future agreement must ensure that Hamas can no longer pose a threat to Israel, arguing that a premature military withdrawal could allow the group to regroup and launch further attacks. Israeli officials have maintained that lasting peace depends on eliminating Hamas’ ability to carry out armed operations.
Hamas has rejected calls to disarm, insisting that its weapons are part of what it describes as legitimate resistance. Mediators from several countries continue working to secure a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and increased humanitarian aid for Gaza.
Analysts say Netanyahu’s stance could complicate ongoing negotiations, as key issuesâincluding disarmament, troop withdrawal, and post-war governance of Gazaâremain unresolved.
