Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said Thursday that Israel will never fully withdraw from the Gaza Strip, even under future peace arrangements, emphasizing the need for a lasting security presence.
Speaking at a conference organized by Makor Rishon in Jerusalem, Katz said Israel would maintain a significant security zone inside Gaza to prevent Hamas or Iran from rearming the territory. “If Hamas doesn’t disarm, we will do it,” Katz stated.
His comments come amid controversy over earlier remarks interpreted as support for rebuilding Israeli settlements in Gaza. Katz rejected claims that he had reversed his position, saying his words were misinterpreted and that any long-term vision would unfold “in due time.”
Katz stressed the importance of Israeli control over the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, warning that even a brief absence would allow Iran to funnel weapons into Gaza.
U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed 20-point peace plan states that Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza and envisions a full IDF withdrawal following the deployment of an international stabilization force — with the exception of a limited security perimeter.
Katz acknowledged the plan but underscored that Israeli security concerns would ultimately dictate conditions on the ground. He also made an ambiguous reference to potential Nahal pioneer groups in northern Gaza, noting that such ideas were theoretical rather than immediate policy.
“Israel’s responsibility is to protect its citizens,” Katz said. “That reality will not change.”
