Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel does not intend to occupy or govern Gaza after the end of its war with Hamas. However, he emphasized the need for the enclave to be “demilitarized, deradicalized, and rebuilt.” In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu explained that a “civilian government” would be required to govern Gaza, without specifying who would form such a body. He affirmed that Israel’s goal is to provide a better future for both Gaza and Israel by defeating Hamas. Netanyahu did not set a specific timetable for this, acknowledging that it may take more time.
Netanyahu also highlighted the necessity of a “credible force” to enter Gaza when needed to combat militants and prevent the re-emergence of a Hamas-like entity. These comments come after his earlier statement that Israel would assume responsibility for Gaza’s security indefinitely, which received pushback from the United States. President Joe Biden, through White House national security spokesperson John Kirby, expressed his disagreement with the idea of reoccupying Gaza. Secretary of State Antony Blinken further emphasized that durable peace and security should not involve the reoccupation of Gaza.
While Israeli officials clarified that Netanyahu’s statements did not imply administrative control over Gaza, conflicting remarks by members of the government have caused confusion about Israel’s plans. In 2005, Israel withdrew its soldiers and settlers from Gaza but maintains a blockade that controls access to the Hamas-governed enclave by land, air, and sea. While Israel contends that the withdrawal marked the end of the occupation, experts in international law argue that Israel still exercises “effective control” over the territory.
US officials have previously suggested that the Palestinian Authority should govern Gaza after the war, but Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas maintains that this would only be possible through a political solution that involves the return of territory captured by Israel in the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. Netanyahu reiterated his opposition to a ceasefire with Hamas, asserting that it would equate to surrendering to terrorism. He commended the Israeli military for its exceptional performance and vowed to continue the campaign against Hamas until the mission is accomplished.
Israel’s offensive against Gaza has resulted in a significant loss of life. According to the health ministry in Gaza, at least 10,569 Palestinians, including 4,324 children, have been killed as a result of Israel’s bombardment. Meanwhile, Israeli officials claim that Hamas attacks on October 7 resulted in the deaths of 1,405 people, primarily civilians.
Overall, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s call for a “civilian government” in Gaza after the defeat of Hamas has sparked discussions about the future governance of the enclave. The international community, including the United States, has expressed their views on the matter, emphasizing the need for peace, security, and a political solution. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas continues to draw attention and raise concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
