Israel is preparing to assume complete control over Gaza, according to U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. Speaking to NBC News on Sunday, Graham stated that the Israeli government intends to occupy the Palestinian territory long-term—similar to how the U.S. occupied parts of Germany and Japan after World War II.

“No other outcome besides occupation will be acceptable to Israeli leadership,” Graham said. He explained that West Jerusalem has concluded it cannot end the war with Hamas in a way that ensures the country’s long-term safety without full control over Gaza.

According to Graham, Washington also sees no path to a negotiated peace with Hamas. The U.S.-led mediation efforts have stalled, and the senator remarked, “They plan to do in Gaza what we did in Tokyo and Berlin—seize the territory by force and rebuild from the ground up.” He added that Israel might offer Hamas fighters safe exit from Gaza in return for the release of hostages.

Earlier this week, U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, announced that Washington was calling its negotiating team back for consultations. He accused Hamas of showing no real interest in reaching a ceasefire. The proposed deal included a 60-day pause in fighting, during which Hamas would release ten hostages alive and return the remains of 18 others, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

Talks reportedly broke down due to major disagreements over the terms for ending the war. Hamas demanded a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, while Israel has refused to stop its military campaign until Hamas gives up power and disarms.

The conflict began in October 2023 following a deadly Hamas assault on southern Israel, which left 1,200 people dead. Since then, over 59,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.

Meanwhile, reports continue to surface about Israel’s alleged intention to permanently occupy Gaza and possibly relocate its 2.3 million residents elsewhere.