Israeli Defense Minister Firmly Rejects Proposal for Military Rule in Gaza
In a bold move, the Israeli Defense Minister directly challenges the Prime Minister's post-war strategies, emphasizing his strong stance against the idea of Israeli military governance in Gaza. The Minister's unwavering opposition sends a clear message of resistance to such proposals.
Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to publicly declare that Israel will not govern Gaza and to clarify his plans after the war. Gallant emphasized that he is against Israeli control in the Palestinian territory.
During a press conference at Israel's military headquarters on Wednesday, Gallant stated that the goal "after Hamas" can only be achieved by Palestinian entities taking charge of Gaza, with the support of international partners. This would establish a new governing system as an alternative to Hamas' rule.
I urge Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to announce that Israel will not take civilian control over the Gaza Strip, will not impose military rule in the Gaza Strip, and will work towards establishing a new governing option to Hamas in the Gaza Strip.
These comments from Gallant come at a time when there are growing concerns about Israel's future plans in Gaza. The Israeli military recently re-entered northern Gaza areas that it had previously left, to confront Hamas fighters who had reappeared during a period of instability.
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Israeli protesters were seen ransacking aid meant for Gaza. Israeli military officials have expressed concerns about the lack of a long-term strategy for governing post-war Gaza. Similarly, top US officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, have publicly warned that Israel needs to focus on creating a stable future to prevent chaos and anarchy in the region.
Gallant has expressed his opposition to Israeli control over post-war Gaza in the past. However, his comments on Wednesday were the most direct yet. He cautioned about the consequences of a prolonged Israeli military presence in Gaza and specifically called out Netanyahu.
"I will not support Israeli military rule in Gaza. Civilian rule should not be established by Israel in Gaza," he stated. Gallant emphasized that a military occupation of the Palestinian territory would result in significant bloodshed, casualties, and a high economic cost.
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Netanyahu responded to Gallant's comments by stating in a video posted on social media that he does not support Hamas or the Palestinian Authority ruling Gaza. He mentioned that he does not want to see Fatah, the dominant party in the Palestinian Authority, take over from Hamas in Gaza.
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Egypt has warned Israel of potential serious consequences regarding its operation in Rafah, Gaza. Netanyahu has stated that removing Hamas is necessary before establishing a new civilian government in Gaza. He emphasized that as long as Hamas is in power, no other group, including the Palestinian Authority, would be allowed to take over civilian administration in Gaza.
Gallant's comments caused a lot of controversy in Israel, especially among right-wing politicians who criticized him and even called for Netanyahu to fire him. On the other hand, Minister Benny Gantz supported Gallant's statement, saying that he was telling the truth.
The tension between Gallant and Netanyahu comes after the US repeatedly asked Israel to come up with a clear plan for Gaza after the war.
"We do not support an Israeli occupation. We also do not support Hamas governance in Gaza," said US Secretary of State Antony Blinken during a press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of avoiding anarchy and a vacuum that could lead to chaos.
Blinken also called for a clear and concrete plan to address the situation, urging Israel to present its ideas.
Editor's P/S:
Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant's recent remarks urging Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare that Israel will not govern Gaza and to clarify post-war plans have sparked controversy. Gallant's opposition to Israeli control in the Palestinian territory highlights concerns about the long-term implications of military occupation, including bloodshed, casualties, and economic costs. His call for a new governing system supported by international partners echoes concerns raised by US officials about the need to prevent chaos and establish a stable future in Gaza.
Netanyahu's response, indicating that he does not support Hamas or the Palestinian Authority ruling Gaza, suggests a complex balancing act. While Gallant's comments have garnered support from some quarters, they have also drawn criticism from right-wing politicians. The tension between Gallant and Netanyahu underscores the ongoing debate within Israel about its future role in Gaza and the need for a clear and concrete plan to address the region's challenges.
