Israel’s defense minister has announced that Israeli troops will remain in security zones in the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, and Syria indefinitely. The remarks have complicated talks with Hamas over a ceasefire and hostage release.
The comments came as local health officials reported another 22 people dead, including a one-year-old girl, in an Israeli strike across Gaza. Forces have taken over more than half of Gaza to pressure Hamas militants to release hostages after Israel ended their ceasefire last month.
Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the military will remain in security zones as a buffer between the enemy and Israeli communities, regardless of the situation in Gaza or Lebanon. The Palestinians view this presence as military occupation, violating international law.
The Lebanese president said that Israel’s continued presence is hindering the full deployment of the Lebanese army as required by the ceasefire negotiated with Israel. Two drone strikes on Wednesday in southern Lebanon killed two people, and UN reports say Israeli strikes have killed more than 70 civilians since November.
Hamas has demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a lasting ceasefire to release dozens of remaining hostages. The main organization representing families of the hostages stated that Israel’s actions are hindering a solution, emphasizing the need for hostage releases as part of an agreement.
The conflict has resulted in over 51,000 Palestinian deaths according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, with women and children making up more than half of those killed. Israel claims to have killed around 20,000 militants, but without providing evidence.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-palestinians-hamas-war-news-ceasefire-hostages-04-16-2025-884713e2096d5353e3008ec7d9cc01ab