Israeli Defense Minister Outlines Plans for Future of Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict with Hamas
Israeli tanks continued to roll near the border of the Gaza Strip as Defense Minister Yoav Gallant detailed his strategy for the future of Gaza amid the ongoing battle with the militant group Hamas.
Gallant outlined his vision for a future arrangement that would see the enclave run by a Palestinian body under overall Israeli security control. He emphasized a new, more targeted approach in the northern section of Gaza, while continuing to pursue Hamas leaders in the south.
This announcement comes as Israel has been facing pressure to shift to less intense combat operations in Gaza, resulting in a drawdown of forces to allow reservists to return to their jobs. Gallant’s office stated that the military strategy would include raids, demolishing tunnels, air and ground strikes, and special forces operations.
The offensive in Gaza was launched following an attack by Hamas gunmen that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of about 240 hostages, according to Israeli estimates. The offensive has reportedly killed more than 22,000 people and forced most of the population out of their homes, leaving much of Gaza in ruins, according to Palestinian health authorities.
Looking ahead, Gallant ruled out a return of Israeli settlements in Gaza, stating that there would be no Israeli civilian presence and that Palestinian bodies would govern the enclave. Israel would maintain operational freedom, with a multinational task force led by the United States, in partnership with the European Union and regional partners, taking responsibility for rehabilitating the territory.
Gallant also mentioned ongoing dialogue with Egypt about interim and long-term solutions, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out a role for the Palestinian Authority in the future of Gaza.
While Gallant’s statement gave no details about the specific Palestinian body envisioned to govern Gaza, he emphasized that it would build on the capabilities of existing administrative mechanisms in the territory. The defense minister stressed that any Palestinian entity in Gaza must refrain from engaging in hostile actions or threats against Israel, with Israel continuing to inspect goods entering Gaza for security reasons.
As the conflict continues, the future of Gaza remains uncertain, with ongoing discussions and strategies being developed to bring about a long-term resolution in the region.