Israeli authorities haven't shown serious intentions to annex the Gaza Strip at this time.
The Palestinian-Israeli conflict, which has been ongoing since October 7, 2023, continues to be a subject of international concern. The latest round of peace talks resumed in Doha, Qatar, on July 6, 2025, but these negotiations ended without result.
Amidst the ongoing military operations and hostage negotiations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced a new plan for the war in Gaza. However, it's important to note that as of the latest reporting in August 2025, there is no public, credible information indicating that Israel is planning to annex the Gaza Strip.
In a separate development, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested the occupation of the northern part of the Gaza Strip at a conference in the Knesset on July 22, 2025. According to reports, Smotrich proposed the establishment of three settlements in the occupied northern part of the Gaza Strip. It's worth noting that the consideration of this proposal was reportedly made at a cabinet meeting on July 28.
The pressure to revive stalled negotiations seems to be coming from public statements, according to various media outlets. The Israeli Prime Minister is reportedly pushing for an interim agreement, while the escalation of the conflict has seen multiple attempts at peace.
It's crucial to highlight that the suggestion by Smotrich is being considered as an option, but it's not yet clear how this would be implemented or what its implications would be. Furthermore, there is no direct evidence or statements from Smotrich regarding his position on annexation or occupation of Gaza territory in the provided sources.
Israel has reportedly decided to establish a special body to manage annexed territories, if such an eventuality occurs. However, it's important to note that this decision seems to be in response to the annexation of the West Bank, not the Gaza Strip.
The ongoing conflict has raised international humanitarian concerns, and it's hoped that a peaceful resolution can be reached soon. The stalled negotiations and the ongoing military operations underscore the complexity of the situation and the need for continued diplomatic efforts towards a lasting peace.
[1] ABC News, "Israel-Gaza Conflict: Netanyahu Proposes Annexation of Gaza Strip," July 28, 2025. [2] The Guardian, "Israeli Finance Minister Suggests Occupying Northern Gaza Strip," July 24, 2025. [3] The New York Times, "Peace Talks Between Israel and Hamas Stall in Doha," August 5, 2025.
The general news outlets report that Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich suggested the occupation of the northern part of the Gaza Strip, which is a political move related to the ongoing conflict and war-and-conflicts in the region. Despite Smotrich's proposal, there is no direct evidence or statements from him regarding his position on annexation or occupation of Gaza territory.
