Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed his stance against Hamas governance in Gaza during a memorial event for the victims of the October 7, 2023 attack. The ceremony was part of Israel’s national day of remembrance, marking the anniversary of the attack that killed hundreds of Palestinians.

According to a UN study cited by multiple sources, over 80 percent of buildings in the Gaza Strip have been damaged by Israeli forces since the start of the conflict. The report highlights the extensive destruction, with approximately 2.15 million buildings affected. The study was released as part of an ongoing assessment of the humanitarian impact of the war.

Netanyahu’s remarks during the memorial event underscored his government’s position that Hamas must not be allowed to govern Gaza. This stance aligns with Israel’s broader military strategy, which has focused on targeting Hamas infrastructure and leadership.

The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has led to widespread displacement and severe humanitarian crises in Gaza. International organizations have called for an independent investigation into the scale of destruction, while Israeli officials continue to justify their actions as necessary for security.

The situation in Gaza remains a focal point of international concern, with ongoing efforts to assess the full extent of the damage and its long-term implications for the region.