Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will completely occupy the Gaza Strip to liberate the region from Hamas, calling for public support.

Netanyahu confirmed the decision to fully occupy the Gaza Strip, saying the aim is to free the area from "the tyranny of terrorists". He said many Gazans are asking for help to get rid of Hamas. Tensions between Netanyahu and Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir have escalated, and Netanyahu has demanded his resignation if he disagrees with the plan. The announcement comes after failed negotiations with Hamas and Israel is considering a security and reconstruction program for Gaza, detailed in a document drafted by security experts.