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Israel will not annex Gaza but expand operations, says Netanyahu; war could end if Hamas surrenders
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said that Israel has no intention of annexing Gaza, and that the war can end immediately if Hamas agrees to disarm. In an interview with CNN-News18, Netanyahu outlined the path forward in the conflict, making it clear that Israel's goal is to neutralise Hamas while protecting civilian lives.
'Israel will not annex Gaza,' Netanyahu stated, adding that a security perimeter will be established around the territory to prevent future threats. He also hinted at the possibility of an international arrangement to govern Gaza after the conflict, though specifics were not detailed.
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#EXCLUSIVE | Israel will not annex Gaza, an international body will govern Gaza and war will be over if Hamas lays down its arms. Israeli arms were used by India in Operation Sindoor and the arms are battle ready: Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu (@netanyahu) speaks with… pic.twitter.com/sN3LUpjcU6 — News18 (@CNNnews18) August 7, 2025
Netanyahu reiterated that Israel's top priorities remain the destruction of Hamas and the safe return of all hostages. 'We will destroy Hamas. We will get our hostages back,' he said. 'The war can be over tomorrow if Hamas lays down arms. Innocents must be separated from Hamas.'
In remarks that touched on India and the United States, Netanyahu described India as a 'solid partner' for both Israel and America. Referring to ongoing tensions, he said, 'There is a basic understanding in America that India is a natural partner. Obstacles can be dealt with. This is a temporary obstacle.'
He also noted that equipment previously provided by Israel had performed well during India's Operation Sindoor. 'The equipment given before worked well during Operation Sindoor,' Netanyahu said, calling them 'battle proven'.
Stressing shared interests, Netanyahu said, 'The goal for America and India is for both sides to succeed. There is so much common ground between Delhi and Washington. A way can be found to resolve this. It's in the interests of both India and America and Israel for this to end quickly.'
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