Netanyahu says Gaza reconstruction will not begin until Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told his cabinet that there will be no reconstruction in the Gaza Strip unless Hamas is fully disarmed and the territory is demilitarised. He repeated the condition at the weekly cabinet meeting, adding that Gazans must have the freedom to leave if they wish, but those who stay cannot threaten Israel.

Netanyahu also dismissed media reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump asked Israel not to act against tunnels in Lebanon, calling the claim "fake news." His statement comes as the Israeli military continues strikes in Gaza, most recently killing two civilians.

A senior U.S. official echoed the same position, saying any plan for Gaza’s rebuilding – estimated at $70 billion – will be blocked until Hamas relinquishes its weapons. The official rejected proposals to begin reconstruction in Israeli‑controlled areas of Gaza without full disarmament.

Hamas has announced it may dissolve its governing role in Gaza, but diplomatic sources say the move does not include disarmament and is viewed as a maneuver rather than a genuine transition.

Overall, Netanyahu’s stance signals that Israel will not proceed with any reconstruction phase of the cease‑fire agreement until its security demands are met.