Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel does not intend to hold on to Gaza once its military campaign against Hamas concludes. Speaking in a televised interview, Netanyahu said the objective remains to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities, but long-term control of Gaza is not part of Israel’s plan.

Instead, he outlined a vision in which authority over Gaza would eventually be transferred to Arab partners in the region. While no specific countries or groups were named, Netanyahu indicated that talks with potential stakeholders were ongoing. The aim, he said, would be to establish a governing body that could maintain stability and prevent the return of militant groups.

Gaza has been at the center of ongoing conflict, with Israel citing repeated rocket attacks and security threats from Hamas as justification for its military operations. Netanyahu stressed that removing Hamas from power is a security necessity, but holding Gaza under Israeli control would not serve the country’s long-term interests.

Analysts note that the plan raises complex questions about who would take over governance and how reconstruction and humanitarian needs would be managed. Arab nations have in the past expressed willingness to support post-conflict rebuilding but have also been cautious about assuming direct administrative roles.

For now, the focus remains on military operations, but Netanyahu’s remarks appear aimed at reassuring both domestic and international audiences that Israel’s goal is not permanent occupation. The coming months will likely determine whether a regional agreement can be reached to shape Gaza’s future governance.