U.S. opposes permanent Israeli military presence in Gaza

Washington has voiced strong opposition to the establishment of permanent Israeli military bases in Gaza after reports emerged of the proposed plan by Tel Aviv.

The report, citing Israeli officials and satellite imagery, alleges that Israel has fortified military structures and demolished over 600 Palestinian buildings around the Netzarim Corridor, a critical route dividing the enclave into northern and southern regions.

According to the report, Israeli forces appear to be creating a buffer zone, with outposts featuring communications towers and defensive fortifications. The analysis suggests these developments could indicate plans for long-term control of the area.

Also Read: Qatar, UK double joint humanitarian funding to historic $100 million

Responding to the report, U.S. State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel stated that such actions, if accurate, would be “inconsistent” with U.S. policy on Gaza’s future.

The Biden administration opposes any actions that would reduce Gaza’s territory, forcibly displace Palestinians, or lead to prolonged Israeli occupation of the coastal enclave.

This stance brings to life the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Israel regarding the humanitarian and political future of Gaza, as concerns grow over the implications of these reported military activities.

Meanwhile, at least 36 Palestinians have been killed and almost 100 wounded in Israeli attacks across Gaza over the most recent 24-hour reporting period, the war-torn enclave’s Ministry of Health reports.

So far, 44,502 Palestinians have been killed while 105,454 have been wounded since October 7, 2023, when the war broke out.