Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that the phase of intense combat against the Palestinian group Hamas is nearing its end.
Netanyahu also mentioned that the conclusion of the intense combat phase in Gaza would allow for the redeployment of more Israeli forces along Israel’s northern border with Lebanon. Tensions between Israel and the Lebanese group Hezbollah have significantly increased in recent weeks.
“The phase of intense fighting against Hamas is coming to an end. This does not mean the war is ending, but the war in its intense phase in Rafah is nearing its conclusion,” Netanyahu said in an interview.
He also reiterated his rejection of the idea that the Palestinian Authority, which operates in the occupied West Bank, could take control of Gaza instead of Hamas.
“After the intense phase (of fighting) ends, we will consider moving some forces northward. And we will do so. Primarily for defensive purposes, but also to allow ‘evacuated’ residents to return home,” Netanyahu added.
Israel and Hezbollah have increasingly targeted each other with airstrikes since last October. Tens of thousands of civilians have been evacuated from both sides of the border.
