Israeli Defense Minister Yisrael Katz confirmed that the occupation will escalate the fighting throughout the Gaza Strip if Hamas continues to refuse to release the detainees in the near future.

Katz pointed out that the occupation will work to sever the Gaza Strip and control more lands, including annexing them to the security buffer zones.

During a visit to the Morag axis in the southern Gaza Strip, accompanied by the commander of the Southern Command, Katz added that his government is working to encourage the voluntary migration of Gaza residents in accordance with President Trump's vision.

He explained that the army is controlling areas of the Gaza Strip to include them in the buffer zones, which will make Gaza smaller and more isolated.

Katz addressed the residents of Gaza, saying: "Expel Hamas and return the captives. This is the only way to stop the war."

He also stressed that the occupation will remain present in the Philadelphi Corridor and the buffer zone under any circumstances, even if a swap deal is reached.