Lapid says that the occupation of Gaza means the death of prisoners and the collapse of Israel's economy.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said on Sunday evening that the government's plan to occupy the entire Gaza Strip means "the death of prisoners and soldiers" in the area and "the collapse" of Israel's economy. This was stated in a televised speech that Lapid broadcast on his account on the "X" platform.

Lapid spoke in response to a press conference held by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who announced a plan approved by the security cabinet to occupy the entire Gaza Strip.

Lapid clarified that what Netanyahu proposed means that "prisoners will die, soldiers will die, the economy will collapse, and our international standing will deteriorate."

In the press conference, Netanyahu claimed that "our goal is not to occupy Gaza but to establish a civilian administration in the area that does not follow Hamas or the Palestinian Authority."

In response to Netanyahu's statements, Lapid said: "What we saw this evening was not a press conference, but a tragic scene of a failed Prime Minister who replaced reality with a presentation."

Lapid also warned that expanding the war in Gaza "poses a danger to Israel and its security and is of no benefit."

He suggested that instead, a deal should be made, all prisoners should be released, the war should end, and Egypt should be brought in to manage Gaza.