Israel asserts control, dismantles terror networks, exposes regional failures as Hamas collapses under decisive military pressure.
Israel’s Energy and Infrastructure Minister Eli Cohen, speaking to Arutz Sheva, made it clear: the war’s endgame is total victory. With all living and fallen hostages returned, Israel’s focus is now the absolute dismantling and disarmament of Hamas.
Cohen stressed that 90% of the mission is already complete, with only the final phase remaining. That phase is uncompromising: ensuring Hamas never again holds weapons or power in Gaza.
💣 Hamas Reduced to Ruins — Gaza Pays the Price of Terror
Despite claims of rearmament, Cohen dismissed Hamas as a shadow of its former self, blaming the group’s suicidal war strategy for Gaza’s devastation. He emphasized that Hamas’ actions didn’t just destroy Gaza — they triggered a regional collapse:
- Hezbollah weakened without Nasrallah
- Assad sidelined in Syria
- Houthis struck and constrained
- Iran facing its weakest position since 1979
This, Cohen argued, proves that terror alliances fail when confronted by Israeli resolve.
🚫 No Retreat, No Surrender, No Terrorist Rewards
Rejecting opposition calls to retreat to pre-October 6 lines or release terrorists, Cohen was blunt: Israel will not surrender. The Cabinet’s directive is unwavering — no armed organization in Gaza, especially Hamas.
Predictions that Israel would avoid Rafah or fail to retrieve hostages were proven wrong. Cohen believes the same will happen with Hamas’ total defeat.
🌍 Multinational Force? Israel Keeps Control
Under understandings with U.S. President Donald Trump, a short window exists for a multinational force to attempt demilitarization. Cohen openly doubts its effectiveness and made Israel’s stance crystal clear:
- No withdrawal before disarmament
- Israeli security control remains absolute
- No foreign soldiers from Qatar or Turkey in Gaza
Israel, he said, disagrees with their inclusion in Trump’s Peace Council and will not compromise security.
🚪 Rafah Crossing: Exit Only, Under Israeli Supervision
Cohen outlined a stark reality: Gaza is in ruins due to Hamas. The Rafah crossing will operate solely under Israeli supervision, allowing Gazans to leave, not enter.
“There is no reason for people to come into Gaza,” Cohen stated. Recovery is not imminent, and Israel will ensure controlled, secure exits — prioritizing security and regional stability.
