Netanyahu Discusses Next Phase in Gaza, Rejects 7 Oct Inquiry Amid Tumultuous Knesset Session

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the next phase in Gaza and attempted to counter accusations during a heated Knesset (Parliament) session on Monday. The session was marked by objections and boos during a discussion on forming a commission of inquiry into the events of October 7, 2023.

Netanyahu's Vision for Gaza's Next Phase

• Demilitarization Pledge: Netanyahu, described as "wanted by the International Criminal Court on charges of committing war crimes," vowed that the Gaza Strip would be a demilitarized zone. He insisted that Hamas's disarmament would be achieved, "whether the easy way or the hard way."

• Agreements and Conflict: He stated that Israel is "determined to firmly implement ceasefire agreements with its enemies" and maintained that the "battle for Israel's defense continues."

• Imminent Normalization: Netanyahu claimed that "countries are approaching Israel more than ever before," adding, "You will soon hear about these countries."

Controversy Over the October 7 Inquiry

• Rejection of Opposition's Plan: Netanyahu rejected the opposition's proposals for forming an official commission of inquiry into the October 7 failures. He advocated for forming a "committee of inquiry that represents the vast majority of Israelis," citing the US handling of the 9/11 events.

• Opposition's Accusation: Opposition Leader Yair Lapid directly accused Netanyahu of trying to prevent an official inquiry because "the truth is that you are guilty," holding him responsible for the failures and significant losses incurred by Israel's wars.

The Knesset session followed Netanyahu's meeting with US envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff earlier in the day to discuss the second phase of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.