Israel plans to settle northern Gaza by establishing Nahal nucleus settlements "at an appropriate time," Defense Minister Israel Katz said on Tuesday, adding that it has no intention of withdrawing from territory under Israeli control in either Gaza or Syria.
Katz later walked back his statement following pressure from US officials.
“We will not move a millimeter from Syria, and in northern Gaza we will establish Nahal nuclei in place of the communities that were evacuated,” Katz said in his initial remarks, speaking at a conference in the Jewish settlement of Beit El, in the West Bank.
Nahal nucleus programs, run under the auspices of the IDF's Nahal Brigade, focus on combining community service with military service, usually in areas the Israeli government seeks to encourage settlement. These programs typically focus on supporting their community's local production, such as agriculture.
“We are in a period of practical sovereignty,” Katz continued. “There are opportunities here that have not existed for a very long time.”
Settler group celebrates as Katz calls to resettle Gaza
Following Katz's initial remarks, the Nahala movement made a statement in response to the announcement.
"We welcome the defense minister’s remarks and the clear direction he set regarding the establishment of Nahal Nucleus settlement in Gaza. This is a correct and meaningful step toward restoring a Jewish presence in Gaza. Over the years, the Nahal nuclei have proven themselves as a success story."
Katz's declaration contradicts previous statements made by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who told CNN in May of last year that resettling Gaza "was never in the cards."
Katz’s comments also come amid controversy surrounding his role in the expected closure of Army Radio, the IDF’s military radio station. In accordance with a government decision, Katz appointed Defense Ministry Director-General Maj.-Gen. (res.) Amir Baram to lead the implementation team responsible for the station’s shutdown.
The team will oversee the process of closing Army Radio and examine how Galgalatz, the IDF-operated music station, will continue to operate while maintaining its distinct character and identity.
Additionally, Peace Now issued a statement criticizing the defense minister after he expressed support for establishing settlements in Gaza.
The organization said the remarks were disconnected from reality and aligned with extremist elements on the Right, referencing recent incidents in which activists breached the fence and entered the Gaza Strip.
Peace Now added that the statement harms Israel’s security, the military, and efforts toward a diplomatic arrangement.
The group noted the comments came ahead of the prime minister’s planned visit to the United States and said they could undermine efforts to advance the next phase of an agreement to end the war and promote regional cooperation.