Netanyahu: We will ‘seize territory’ in Gaza if captives not released

'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu renewed his threats to continue military operations and aggression against Gaza, emphasizing that pressure on Hamas would escalate, possibly including taking control of land within the territory.

In a speech to the Knesset on Wednesday, Netanyahu stated, "The fighting continues, and as long as Hamas refuses to release the captives, the pressure will intensify." He added, "I tell Hamas that this includes the control of land, along with other steps that I will not disclose now."

Netanyahu also warned that the Israeli Occupation Forces (IOF) would "seize territory" in Gaza if the captives were not released, with the pressure becoming "more and more powerful." He did not elaborate on the specific actions to follow.

In a subsequent interview, Netanyahu revealed coordination with US President Donald Trump regarding a plan to relocate Gaza’s population, describing it as the "day after" the battle.

On the issue of a prisoner exchange, Netanyahu acknowledged that "internal political pressures derailed the initial exchange deal in November" and promised to reveal those responsible for its failure.