'Israeli' minister vows to continue Gaza occupation despite international criticism

'Israeli' Defense Minister Israel Katz strongly condemned international condemnations and threats of sanctions over 'Israel’s' plan to occupy the Gaza Strip, asserting on Friday that such opposition will not deter the military campaign.

In a statement reported by Times of Israel, Katz emphasized that Hamas continues to pose a significant security threat to 'Israel'. He reaffirmed the 'Israeli' government’s determination to pursue all objectives of the war, following the decision by the small ministerial cabinet to proceed with the Gaza occupation.

“The primary goals of this war include the complete elimination of Hamas, the creation of conditions for the release of detainees, and the establishment of a wide and strong security buffer zone inside Gaza,” Katz said.

Despite growing international pressure and warnings of sanctions, Katz insisted that these actions “will not stop the plan,” and that the 'Israeli' government is committed to seeing the operation through to its conclusion.