Israel vows to keep troops in Gaza “Security Zones” indefinitely

English , International - بین الاقوامی , Snippets , / Wednesday, April 16th, 2025

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Sources Anadolu Agency
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced Wednesday that Israeli forces will remain in “security zones” throughout Gaza, regardless of whether the situation is temporary or permanent.
“Unlike in the past, the army is not evacuating areas it has cleared and seized,” Katz stated. “The army will stay in these zones to act as a buffer between Israeli communities and enemy forces, similar to our positions in Lebanon and Syria.”
The minister acknowledged that Israeli actions since the war began in October 2023 have led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians, with the army expanding its control over more areas in Gaza.
Katz also reaffirmed Israel’s policy to block humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, calling it a critical tool in denying Hamas the ability to use the aid to maintain influence. “Preventing aid is a key pressure point against Hamas,” he added.
Since March 2, Israel has kept Gaza’s crossings closed, halting essential supplies like food, water, and medical aid, worsening the already severe humanitarian crisis.
The Israeli military resumed its offensive on March 18, ending a ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal reached in January. The renewed assault has led to devastating losses and civilian casualties.
Palestinian health officials report over 51,000 deaths, mostly women and children, since the war began.
Israel is facing growing international legal pressure. In November, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Prime Minister Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Gallant over alleged war crimes. The International Court of Justice is also hearing a genocide case against Israel for its actions in Gaza.