Israel Confirms Troops Will Stay in Gaza Amid Tensions

JERUSALEM — Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz on Tuesday vowed that Israeli troops will remain in Gaza, stressing the military presence is purely for security and not for civilian settlement.

“The government has no intention of establishing settlements in Gaza,” Katz said, according to Reuters. His remarks followed earlier comments suggesting the possible deployment of Nahal military units, a formation historically linked with establishing Israeli communities. The statement sparked immediate speculation that Israel might return civilians to Gaza, a move that would have marked a dramatic reversal of the 2005 withdrawal.

Katz clarified the decision is strictly security-driven. “We are there to protect, to prevent what happened,” he said, highlighting threats not only from Gaza but also from Lebanon and Syria. The defence minister emphasized that Israel cannot rely on external actors to ensure the safety of its citizens.

The announcement comes in the context of the October U.S.-backed Gaza plan, which calls for a staged Israeli withdrawal while maintaining a security buffer until the enclave is deemed stable. Hamas condemned Katz’s remarks, describing them as a violation of the ceasefire agreement. A U.S. official echoed the message, urging all parties to respect the commitments outlined in the plan.

Katz’s clarification also reflects the balancing act Israel faces domestically. Ultra-nationalist groups have long advocated for a return to Gaza settlements, while international observers warn against moves that could destabilize the region. According to Dawn, the defence minister’s comments underline Israel’s focus on security without jeopardizing diplomatic agreements or inflaming tensions further.

The situation also comes amid ongoing West Bank settlement expansion under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government, which has drawn international criticism. Katz’s statements, while primarily about Gaza, signal the government’s broader security strategy: maintaining control in volatile areas without crossing political or diplomatic red lines.

As tensions continue to simmer, Israel’s military presence in Gaza appears set to remain, with the government emphasizing that defense, not settlement, is the top priority.

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