US claims that it opposes Israeli plans for permanent military presence in Gaza

The United States has allegedly voiced its opposition to the establishment of permanent Israeli military bases in Gaza following a report by The New York Times that Israel has fortified military outposts and destroyed Palestinian buildings along the so-called Netzarim Corridor.

The Times report, citing Israeli officials and satellite imagery, suggests that Israeli forces may be preparing for long-term control over the area. “Over the past three months, soldiers have demolished more than 600 buildings around the road in an apparent attempt to create a buffer zone. They have also rapidly expanded a network of outposts equipped with communications towers and defensive fortifications,” the report said.

US State Department spokesperson Vedant Patel stated on Tuesday that such actions, if accurate, “certainly would be inconsistent” with US policy on Gaza’s future. The Biden administration opposes any reduction of Gaza’s territory, forced displacement of Palestinians, or prolonged Israeli occupation of the enclave.