Netanyahu Affirms Joint Israeli-US Effort to Disarm Hamas, Demilitarize Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel's commitment to disarming Hamas and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip, a goal agreed upon with US President Donald Trump and supported by international partners. During his visit to the US-Israeli Civil-Military Coordination Center in Kiryat Gat, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel maintains security responsibility and freedom of action in Gaza while working in stages with the United States and other partners to achieve a lasting ceasefire and a different Gaza that no longer threatens Israel. Despite recent Hamas violations of the ceasefire and Israeli retaliatory strikes targeting militant sites, Netanyahu highlighted ongoing cooperation between Israeli and US forces, including progress in covert operations and hostage rescues. He stressed a joint and determined effort to achieve these objectives, either through peaceful means or by force if necessary. Israeli military leaders, along with US CENTCOM officials, accompanied Netanyahu during the visit, underscoring the close coordination underpinning the ceasefire implementation and broader strategic goals. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to stabilizing the region and reshaping Gaza’s post-conflict reality while ensuring Israel's security remains paramount.