In conversation with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said, “Israel's goal is not to take over Gaza, but to free Gaza from Hamas…”

Following Israel’s Cabinet approval of Netanyahu’s plan to completely takeover Gaza, the UK and European allies urged restraint.

“This will help free our hostages and ensure Gaza does not pose a threat to Israel in the future,” Netanyahu wrote. His post echoes sentiments he shared during a Fox News interview on Thursday, when he said a takeover of Gaza’s (formerly) most populous city would “liberate” its people.