Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his government&rsquo;s unwavering commitment to fully reoccupy Gaza and rejected any speculation about a rift with former U.S. President Donald Trump, amid growing international scrutiny of Israel&rsquo;s military actions.
Speaking at a press conference in West Jerusalem on Wednesday, Netanyahu made clear that there is no agreement in place to end the ongoing conflict with Hamas. He emphasized that Israel&rsquo;s objectives remain unchanged: the return of all hostages, the dismantling of Hamas leadership in Gaza, and the complete disarmament of the group.
According to Netanyahu, at least 20 Israeli hostages are believed to still be alive in Gaza, while up to 38 others may have been killed. Despite repeated offers by Hamas to release all captives in exchange for an end to hostilities, a withdrawal of Israeli forces, and the release of Palestinian prisoners, Netanyahu firmly rejected those conditions.
He reiterated that any resolution to the conflict would be followed by the implementation of the so-called "Trump Plan," a controversial proposal often interpreted as paving the way for the relocation or resettlement of Palestinians from Gaza.
Addressing media speculation surrounding Trump's recent diplomatic visit to the Gulf &mdash; which notably excluded Israel &mdash; Netanyahu dismissed suggestions of a strained relationship. Trump&rsquo;s tour included stops in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates, where he secured several major economic deals. However, his omission of Israel led to widespread commentary about possible diplomatic tensions.
Netanyahu pushed back on these reports, claiming Trump had personally reassured him: "Bibi, I want you to know, I have a complete commitment to you and I have a complete commitment to the state of Israel."
He also referenced a recent conversation with U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance, who reportedly told him not to be distracted by "fake news" regarding any rupture in U.S.-Israel relations.
The remarks come amid rising international pressure on Israel to halt its offensive in Gaza, where an 11-week blockade has deepened a humanitarian crisis. President Trump has also voiced concerns over the suffering of civilians in the enclave and called for a swift resolution to the war.

Netanyahu speaks on Gaza war, denies Trump rift

Israeli Prime Minister reaffirms hardline stance on Gaza conflict, outlines post-war plans, and dismisses media speculation of a rift with former U.S. President Donald Trump

Netanyahu Vows Full Reoccupation of Gaza, Denies Tensions with Trump

Israeli Prime Minister reaffirms hardline stance on Gaza conflict, outlines post-war plans, and dismisses media speculation of a rift with former U.S. ...

May 22, 2025 | 15:53 IST