Netanyahu admits failure to dismantle Hamas civil rule, says ‘voluntary migration’ still an option
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged that Israel has not yet achieved its goal of ending Hamas’ civilian rule in the Gaza Strip, but said it would eventually do so.
His remarks came as reports indicate that the Israeli military is expanding its control over Gaza. Netanyahu previously said he had instructed the army to increase its control to 70 per cent of the territory, up from the current 60 per cent, a move that conflicts with the ceasefire agreement brokered by the administration of US President Donald Trump in October 2025.
Speaking about the proposed “voluntary migration” plan for Gaza’s residents, Netanyahu said the proposal remains under consideration. Israeli media have reported that officials have decided to replace the term “voluntary migration” with “Free Movement Plan” in an apparent effort to make the proposal more acceptable internationally following widespread criticism.
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Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz previously said that the “voluntary migration plan from Gaza will be implemented at the appropriate time and in the appropriate way”.
Human rights organisations have warned that creating living conditions that make it impossible for civilians to remain in dignity, and subjecting them to pressure until they say they want to leave, “is not a plan to encourage voluntary migration, but a plan for forced evacuation and displacement”.
Asked about the possibility of establishing Jewish settlements in the Gaza Strip, Netanyahu replied: “It is better to talk less and act wisely.”
His comments come as the Israeli government, backed by its far-right coalition partners, continues to promote the re-establishment of settlements in Gaza. Some analysts argue that the stated objective of ending Hamas’ rule serves as cover for a broader Israeli plan to depopulate the territory.
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