Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged to press ahead with a planned military takeover of Gaza, declaring Israel “has no choice but to finish the job and complete the defeat of Hamas.” Speaking to foreign media in Jerusalem, he insisted the aim was “not to occupy Gaza” but to “free” it, while dismissing what he called a “global campaign of lies” about Israel’s actions.
The plan, which Netanyahu described as operating on a “fairly short timetable,” would see Gaza demilitarised, Israeli forces retaining “overriding security control,” and a non-Israeli civilian administration installed. He also said he had instructed the military to bring in more foreign journalists.
The announcement comes as Germany, a key ally, suspended authorisation of military equipment exports to Israel that could be used in Gaza. Inside Israel, families of hostages have called for a general strike in protest at Netanyahu’s expanded military plans.
The Gaza Health Ministry and hospitals across the territory reported at least 26 Palestinians killed while waiting for aid at multiple distribution points. Ten deaths occurred near the Morag corridor between Rafah and Khan Younis, while six were reported near the Zikim crossing in the north. Four more were killed in Nuseirat refugee camp, with witnesses alleging Israeli gunfire followed warning shots. Six others died in Khan Younis and Rafah.
The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF) backed by the US and Israel as an alternative to the UN-run aid system has faced chaotic scenes since its launch, with several deaths reported near aid routes. GHF said no incidents took place at its sites on Saturday and attributed the violence to looting attempts. The Israeli military denied involvement in the central Gaza shootings.
Separately, seven Palestinians were killed in airstrikes, including two children in Khan Younis. The military has previously accused Hamas of operating from civilian areas but did not comment on Saturday’s strikes.
Gaza’s war has displaced most of its population and pushed it toward famine. Hospital officials say 100 children have now died from malnutrition-related causes since the conflict began.