Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has stated that Israeli troops will remain in the buffer zones along the Gaza border even after a potential ceasefire, according to a statement released on Wednesday.
Hamas has rejected an Israeli-proposed ceasefire deal that would see the return of nearly a dozen hostages held captive for over 550 days. The deal also required Hamas to disarm and lift its blockade of the strip.
Katz said the IDF will remain in the security zones as a buffer between the enemy and Israeli communities, similar to its approach in Lebanon and Syria. However, this stance has been met with criticism from international leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who expressed concern over the situation and the lack of humanitarian aid.
Israel resumed combat operations in Gaza last month after a previous ceasefire agreement fell apart, prompting condemnation from world leaders who have called for an immediate ceasefire. The US Ambassador to the UN has also weighed in, saying that the war will not be over until all hostages are returned home.
Source: https://www.foxnews.com/world/israeli-troops-remain-gaza-buffer-zones-indefinitely-defense-minister-katz-says