Katz: It is the army's responsibility to take charge of security in Gaza as in the West Bank, not Hamas determining the fate of the sector

Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz stated that determining the fate of Gaza will not remain in Hamas' hands, emphasizing the need for the Israeli army to be present "around and inside Gaza" and to take responsibility for security there similar to the West Bank.

Katz made these statements during his visit to new recruits in the Artillery Corps and Air Defense Division at the Tel Hashomer Recruitment Office east of Tel Aviv today, Tuesday.

Katz said, "The goal is to defeat Hamas, whose military and civilian wings will not determine the fate of Gaza. I am confident that we will accomplish this mission."

Katz added that "it is not easy due to the presence of hostages," pointing out that "all our activities are linked to this - protecting and rescuing hostages." He confirmed that "any maneuver we need, including making a deal with these enemies, and rescuing ten others who are also alive, we will do while maintaining security."

Katz continued, "We need the presence of the Israeli Defense Forces around and inside Gaza to protect the civilian communities that may attack us again, as well as to protect the soldiers, prevent weapon smuggling and arming - these are the matters, these are our goals, and we are moving accordingly."