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Israeli Minister Katz Vows Continued Military Presence in Gaza, Defying Peace Accord

West Bank, Occupied Territories – Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz ignited controversy Tuesday by stating that the Israeli military would maintain a presence in the Gaza Strip, contradicting the terms of the U.S.-backed peace plan signed in October. Katz announced plans to establish army units, specifically Nahal outposts, within Gaza, ostensibly for security reasons, despite the agreement calling for a full Israeli withdrawal.

“We are located deep inside Gaza, and we will never leave all of Gaza,” Katz stated. “We are there to protect.”

The comments have drawn sharp criticism and raised concerns about the stability of the fragile truce. Israeli media reported that U.S. officials demanded clarification after Katz’s initial statements.

Nahal units, which combine military service with civilian community building, have historically been associated with the establishment of Israeli settlements, a practice deemed illegal under international law.

Katz made these remarks at a ceremony marking the approval of 1,200 new housing units in the illegal West Bank settlement of Beit El, further fueling tensions. He emphasized the government’s commitment to settlement expansion, suggesting the pursuit of sovereignty and stating: “Netanyahu’s government is a settlements government … it strives for action. If we can get sovereignty, we will bring about sovereignty. We are in the practical sovereignty era.”

The announcement comes amidst ongoing violence in the West Bank by Israeli forces and settlers, as well as continued killings in Gaza despite the declared ceasefire. Palestinian officials report over 1,100 Palestinians killed, approximately 11,000 wounded, and more than 21,000 arrested since the conflict escalated. The Palestinian Ministry of Health reports that at least 406 Palestinians have been killed and 1,118 injured since the ceasefire began on October 11. Since the start of Israel’s war on October 7, 2023, the ministry said, 70,942 Palestinians have been killed and 171,195 wounded.

Israel is expected to hold elections in 2026, with the contentious issue of illegal settlement expansion poised to play a significant role. Far-right members of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s coalition have openly advocated for the reoccupation of Gaza and the expansion of settlements in the West Bank, raising concerns about the future of the peace process.

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