Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that Israel plans to take military control of Gaza, describing the move as necessary for security and to free both Israelis and Palestinians from Hamas. This proposal goes against the advice of Israel's military leadership, who have advocated for a cease-fire and warned that occupying Gaza could require years of combat. Netanyahu clarified that Israel does not seek permanent control of Gaza and would eventually transfer authority to Arab forces. Some analysts suggest that Netanyahu's statements may be intended to pressure Hamas in stalled cease-fire negotiations.