Israel's Defence Minister Declares 'We Will Never Leave Gaza', Signaling Permanent Presence

Is a permanent Israeli military presence in Gaza the new reality? In a statement on December 24, 2025, that could reshape the future of the Middle East, Israel's Defence Minister declared the nation's intent to maintain a long-term military foothold in the territory, sparking fears of a permanent occupation.

A New Phase in a Protracted Conflict

The Defence Minister announced in a press briefing, "We will never leave Gaza. Not until our security is fully guaranteed, and even after." He framed the decision as a necessary measure to prevent the resurgence of militant groups like Hamas and ensure the safety of Israel's borders. The statement indicates a strategic shift from targeted military campaigns to indefinite control of the area.

A Divided International Response

The international community's reaction has been swift and divided. The U.S. State Department responded cautiously, stating, "Our support for a two-state solution is unwavering," but stopped short of directly criticizing the Israeli announcement. In contrast, the Palestinian Authority (PA) condemned it as a "de facto annexation and a declaration of permanent occupation." Neighboring Arab nations have reportedly expressed grave concern over the potential for increased regional instability.

Concerns Over Humanitarian Crisis

A permanent Israeli presence is expected to worsen the already dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. International aid organizations are warning that long-term military control could obstruct aid delivery and jeopardize the safety of civilians in makeshift shelters. It's widely believed that basic rights, including freedom of movement, for the civilian population will be severely restricted.