Israeli PM Netanyahu in Gaza, ‘we are not withdrawing’

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Published: 2026-09-02T19:01:09.818Z • Permanent link

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to Gaza on Tuesday marked a significant escalation in the conflict between Israel and the Palestinian territories. Netanyahu, who has been a strong supporter of Israel's settlement expansion in the West Bank, used the opportunity to reassure his country's citizens that Israel will not be withdrawing from the territory anytime soon. "We are not withdrawing, we are not leaving," Netanyahu said during a speech in Jerusalem, sparking outrage among Palestinian leaders and international observers.

Netanyahu's visit was also seen as a provocative move by Hamas, the Islamist group that controls Gaza, which has been carrying out rocket attacks against Israeli cities in recent weeks. The Israeli military responded to the attacks with airstrikes on Gaza, causing widespread destruction and civilian casualties. The conflict has sparked a global outcry, with many calling for a ceasefire and a return to negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.

The visit has also raised concerns among regional leaders, including US President Joe Biden, who has been pressing Israel to dial back its military actions in Gaza. "We're deeply concerned about the humanitarian situation in Gaza," Biden said during a phone call with Netanyahu on Monday. "We're urging both sides to de-escalate tensions and work towards a peaceful resolution."

Netanyahu's office has rejected these calls, saying that Israel will continue to take military action against Hamas until the group agrees to a ceasefire. The visit has also sparked a heated debate in Israel about the country's treatment of Palestinians, with some critics accusing Netanyahu of perpetuating a policy of apartheid.

Netanyahu's visit has also been seen as a strategic move by Israel to consolidate its power and influence in the region. Israel has been building a network of allies in the Middle East, including Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, and has been using its military might to deter Iran's influence in the region.

Netanyahu's visit has also raised concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where thousands of civilians have been killed or injured in recent weeks. The UN has described the situation as a "humanitarian crisis," and has called for an immediate ceasefire and access for humanitarian aid.