Israel To 'Free Gaza From Hamas, Not Occupy It': Netanyahu After Backlash Over War Plan

Last Updated:August 08, 2025, 22:40 IST

Netanyahu’s remarks comes following growing criticism after Israel’s security cabinet approved a new military plan that includes taking control of Gaza

A file photo of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (AP)

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Friday that Israel’s goal is not to occupy Gaza but to “free" it from Hamas and support the creation of a peaceful civilian government. His comments came during a phone call with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, according to a statement from the prime minister’s office posted on X.

Netanyahu’s remarks also comes following growing criticism after Israel’s security cabinet approved a new military plan that includes taking control of Gaza City. The announcement drew backlash from both domestic and international quarters.

“We are not going to occupy Gaza – we are going to free Gaza from Hamas," Netanyahu said. “Gaza will be demilitarized, and a peaceful civilian administration will be established, one that is not the Palestinian Authority, not Hamas, and not any other terrorist organization. This will help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future."

Netanyahu also expressed disappointment over Germany’s decision to suspend weapons exports to Israel.

“Instead of supporting Israel’s just war against Hamas, which carried out the most horrific attack against the Jewish people since the Holocaust, Germany is rewarding Hamas terrorism by embargoing arms to Israel," his office stated.

The updated plan to “defeat" Hamas includes Israeli forces taking control of Gaza City. Netanyahu’s government also outlined five principles for Gaza’s future, including demilitarisation and the creation of an alternative civil authority.

Netanyahu had told told Fox News that Israel does not intend to govern Gaza long-term but wants to establish a “security perimeter" and hand over control to Arab forces capable of maintaining stability.

The plan sparked strong criticism globally. China, Turkey, Britain, several Arab countries, and the United Nations Human Rights Chief voiced concern. Hamas called the move a “new war crime".

Meanwhile, in a significant policy shift, Germany halted military exports to Israel, citing concerns over their potential use in Gaza. Chancellor Friedrich Merz said it was “increasingly difficult to understand" how Israel’s latest actions support its stated goals.

“The German government will not authorise any exports of military equipment that could be used in the Gaza Strip until further notice," Merz said.

Last month, the Israeli army had claimed that it now controls around 75 percent of the Gaza Strip. Israel previously occupied Gaza from 1967 until its withdrawal in 2005.

(With inputs from AFP)

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