Israeli minister states IDF will remain in Gaza for ‘many years’ as Hamas shows flexibility for ceasefire talks

“I think that we are going to stay in Gaza for a long time. I think most people understand that [Israel] will be years in some kind of West Bank situation where you go in and out and maybe you remain along Netzarim [corridor],” the Israeli minister said.

This follows reports that the IDF is clearing ground to establish military bases in Gaza, particularly in the Netzarim corridor, a military zone situated between the Mediterranean coast and Gaza’s eastern perimeter fence. “That was the only mission. There was not a single construction left that was taller than my waist anywhere (in the corridor), except our bases and observation towers,” Dichter added.

Meanwhile, a report in The New York Times suggested that Hamas may allow the IDF to temporarily remain along the enclave’s border with Egypt. Hamas officials may permit the Israeli military to occupy the Philadelphi Corridor, which the Israeli government, led by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, has vowed not to withdraw from.

The report, citing US officials, indicated that Hamas may be considering moving away from the strategy advocated by slain Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, which called for a prolonged conflict with Israel. Sinwar had said, “The longer it lasts, the closer we get to liberation.”