The Jordan Times
In extensive remarks during an interview on a US podcast, 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war in Gaza is approaching its final stage, revealing post-war ideas that include the possibility of the United States administering the territory.
He claimed that the goal of the operation is to “liberate Gaza from Hamas, not to empty it of its residents.”
Since the 'Israeli' aggression on Gaza started, over 62,895 Palestinians were killed, most of whom were women and children. A total of 158,927 were injured, according to latest statistics from Gaza's Ministry of Health.
Read more: ‘Israel’ army says “evacuation of Gaza City is inevitable”
Final stage of the war: the elimination of Hamas
Netanyahu stated that military operations are moving toward their conclusion, saying: “We are changing the face of the Middle East, and I don’t think the war has taken longer than it should have.” He added: “We are approaching the final stage of the war, which is the ultimate elimination of Hamas.”
This comes as intense military operations by the 'Israeli' army continue across the Gaza Strip.
Future of Gaza: ‘Liberation’ not ‘evacuation’… and call for US involvement
Regarding Gaza’s future, Netanyahu sought to dismiss fears of forced displacement, stressing: “Our goal now is to liberate Gaza from Hamas, not to empty it of its residents as some claim.”
In a notable proposal, Netanyahu opened the door to a direct American role in administering Gaza after the war, saying: “Gaza can have a different future, and if America wants to invest in it, that would be a good thing.”
He added explicitly: “There are several ideas regarding Gaza, and I would agree if the United States wanted to intervene and manage the territory.”
Relations with Washington: invaluable intelligence exchange
Netanyahu defended ties with the current US administration, rejecting claims that Washington is merely following 'Israel’s' agenda.
He said: “The notion that America does what Israel wants is nonsense; no one can force President Trump to do something he doesn’t see as in his country’s interest.”
He emphasized that the relationship is one of partnership and mutual interests, stating: “We are grateful for American military assistance, but we also share intelligence information with them that is invaluable.”