Some Israeli media have reported that the country's forces may remain in the Gaza Strip after the end of their operation in Rafah.

The reports came as the Israeli military suggests that the Rafah operation will be completed within a few weeks.

The Israeli Defense Forces says it has almost completely dismantled two of the four Hamas battalions in Rafah, southern Gaza.

The IDF announced on Tuesday that its troops had killed dozens of Hamas fighters in Rafah in recent days.

Some media outlets reported on Tuesday that a member of Israel's negotiation team said the military will remain in Gaza after the offensive in Rafah and Israel will continue conducting a strong and effective campaign.

The reports suggested that the fighting in Gaza could continue unless the hostages taken by Hamas are released.

There are concerns the conflict could drag on, as a wide gap remains between Israel and Hamas in negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release.

Hamas is calling for a deal that guarantees a complete ceasefire. Israel is stressing that it aims to destroy Hamas.