Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to publicly disavow any Israeli control over Gaza and to outline his plans for the post-war period.

Gallant expressed his opposition to Israeli governance in the Palestinian enclave, emphasizing the necessity for Palestinian entities, supported by international actors, to assume control of Gaza as an alternative to Hamas.

Calls on Netanyahu to not Establish Military Rule

During a news conference last week at the Kirya, Israel’s military headquarters, Gallant emphasized the importance of Netanyahu making a clear decision. He urged Netanyahu to declare that Israel will refrain from establishing civilian or military rule in Gaza and instead facilitate the immediate emergence of a non-Hamas governing body.

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Gallant’s statements come amid growing concerns about Israel’s strategy for Gaza’s long-term governance. Following the redeployment of Israeli troops to northern Gaza, where they engaged Hamas militants amidst a power vacuum, questions have arisen about the absence of a sustainable post-war plan.

Israeli military officials have privately cautioned that without a comprehensive strategy, the cycle of conflict in Gaza will persist. Secretary of State Antony Blinken echoed these concerns, urging Israel to focus on shaping a stable future for Gaza to prevent chaos and anarchy.

While Gallant has previously voiced his opposition to Israeli control in post-war Gaza, his recent remarks were his most direct yet. He warned against the repercussions of a prolonged Israeli military presence, emphasizing the potential for bloodshed, economic strain, and loss of life.

Netanyahu responded to Gallant’s comments, rejecting both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority as suitable governing bodies for Gaza. He emphasized that a complete eradication of Hamas would be necessary before considering a civilian government in Gaza.

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Gallant’s remarks sparked controversy within Israel, with right-wing lawmakers condemning his stance and some calling for his removal. However, Minister Benny Gantz, a member of the war cabinet, supported Gallant’s position, describing it as truthful.

The public disagreement between Gallant and Netanyahu comes amidst repeated calls from the US for Israel to present a clear plan for post-war Gaza. Blinken emphasized that while the US opposes both Israeli occupation and Hamas governance in Gaza, there must be a concrete plan to prevent chaos and instability.

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