No decision made on Gaza military rule, says Israel

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar has stated that no official decision has been made regarding military rule in the Gaza Strip. This statement comes amid growing speculation that Israel may annex Gaza during the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Israel withdrew its troops from Gaza in 2005 after years of occupation. However, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly considering using the current war as a reason to re-establish military control over the area. The potential plan could gain backing from U.S. President Donald Trump. At a press conference with European Union's foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas, Sa'ar mentioned that the Israeli cabinet has not decided on the occupation issue yet. Additionally, an unnamed Israeli official said the government has not determined future civilian administration in Gaza. Defence Minister Israel Katz recently indicated that if Hamas continues to withhold hostages, Israel could annex more territory in Gaza. He stated he instructed the Israeli Defense Forces to seize additional land if necessary. Israel occupied Gaza after the 1967 war but left in 2005. It continues to maintain military control over the West Bank. The envisioned Palestinian state faces significant challenges under recent proposals, which some view as unlikely due to Israeli and U.S. plans. Trump has controversially suggested that the U.S. could take over Gaza and remove Palestinians, which critics label as ethnic cleansing. Meanwhile, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is set to visit the U.S. to discuss military control plans for Gaza with American officials.