Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz declared on December 23, 2025, that Israel will maintain a permanent military presence in the Gaza Strip and parts of Syria, dismissing international calls for withdrawal. Speaking at a ceremony in the West Bank settlement of Beit El, Katz outlined plans to establish Nahal settlement groups in northern Gaza—militarized outposts intended to evolve into civilian communities—replacing areas evacuated during Israel's 2005 disengagement.
"We are deep inside Gaza and will never leave all of Gaza," Katz asserted, emphasizing that the settlements would be developed "in the right way, at the right time." Despite a ceasefire effective since October 10 this year, Israeli forces continue daily operations in Gaza, including demolitions in occupied zones.
Katz also rejected U.S.-mediated diplomatic efforts with Syria, stating, "We will not withdraw even by a millimeter." Israel has maintained control of southwestern Syria's buffer zone and Mount Hermon since December 2024.
The remarks signal a hardening stance amid regional tensions, raising concerns over long-term stability and humanitarian conditions in conflict-affected areas.
