Israeli Defense Minister challenges Prime Minister Netanyahu on post-war Gaza strategies

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced a public challenge from his own defense chief, Yoav Gallant, regarding post-war plans for the Gaza Strip. In a televised statement, Gallant expressed his opposition to any long-term military rule by Israel over the ravaged Palestinian enclave, marking a significant dissent within Israel’s top echelon.

Netanyahu, in response, hinted that Gallant was making excuses for not yet destroying Hamas, the Islamist faction in control of Gaza. However, Centrist ex-general Benny Gantz supported Gallant’s stance, stating that the defense minister had spoken the truth.

Gallant emphasized the need to dismantle Hamas’ governing capabilities in Gaza and establish an alternative Palestinian rule. He called for military action to achieve this goal and urged Netanyahu to formally reject the idea of Israeli military rule in Gaza.

Despite Gallant’s efforts to promote a plan for a non-hostile Palestinian governing alternative to Hamas, he received no response from the Israeli cabinet. The defense minister’s public criticism of the government’s approach to Gaza echoed concerns raised by the United States, which has advocated for a role for the internationally backed Palestinian Authority in the region.

Netanyahu, however, reiterated his refusal to work with the Palestinian Authority, describing it as a hostile entity. He emphasized the need to eliminate Hamas before considering any alternative governance in Gaza.

The ongoing conflict in Gaza has sparked political divisions within Israel, with differing opinions on the post-war strategy for the region. As Israeli ground forces continue operations in northern Gaza, the debate over the future governance of the enclave remains a contentious issue.