Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has unveiled his vision for Gaza in the aftermath of the war. His plan includes Israel maintaining security control indefinitely, while allowing Palestinians without ties to anti-Israel groups to govern the territory.
The United States, a key ally of Israel, has been advocating for the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority (PA) to oversee Gaza after the conflict. However, Netanyahu’s plan does not mention the PA, as he has previously rejected their involvement. Instead, he envisions a demilitarized Gaza, with Israel responsible for removing all military capabilities beyond what is necessary for maintaining public order.
Netanyahu’s plan also includes implementing a “Southern Closure” on Gaza’s border with Egypt to prevent smuggling activities both above and below ground. Additionally, de-radicalization programs would be promoted in religious, educational, and welfare institutions, with participation from Arab countries experienced in such initiatives.
Under the proposed plan, Israel would retain security control over the entire area west of Jordan through land, sea, and air operations. Netanyahu’s decision to present this plan comes amid pressure both domestically and internationally, as he seeks to restore his reputation as a leader capable of safeguarding Israel’s security and appease hardliners in his government.
In response to Netanyahu’s proposal, Mahmoud Abbas, the president of the PA, criticized the plan as destined for failure. Abbas emphasized the need for ending Israel’s occupation of Palestinian territories and recognized the establishment of an independent Palestinian state as crucial for regional stability.
Efforts to negotiate a temporary ceasefire and secure the release of Israeli hostages are ongoing, with talks expected to take place in Paris. The US aims to reach an agreement before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Meanwhile, calls for ending the conflict have intensified due to the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The conflict, which began in October, has resulted in over 29,500 casualties, predominantly women and children. Israel’s military response was triggered by an unprecedented attack from Hamas, resulting in significant civilian casualties and hostages.
As the situation in Gaza worsens, the head of the UN’s agency for Palestinian refugees issued a warning about a potential humanitarian disaster with far-reaching implications for peace, security, and human rights in the region. Netanyahu seeks to shut down UNRWA, accusing its staff of complicity in the October attacks, and replace it with international aid organizations.
Netanyahu has affirmed his commitment to continue the military operation until Hamas and Islamic Jihad, the second-largest armed group in Gaza, are dismantled, and all Israeli hostages are safely returned. Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding Israel’s post-war plan for Gaza, the proposed measures are set to have significant implications on the region’s future stability and security.
