Gaza Post-War Plan Disclosed by Israel’s PM Netanyahu

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has outlined his vision for post-war Gaza, proposing that Israel would maintain indefinite security control. Under his plan, Palestinians with no affiliations to groups hostile to Israel would govern the territory. The document presented to ministers does not mention the West Bank-based Palestinian Authority (PA), which the US has previously favored to govern Gaza after the conflict.

Netanyahu envisions a “demilitarized” Gaza, with Israel responsible for removing all military capabilities beyond those necessary for public order. The plan includes a “Southern Closure” at the territory’s border with Egypt to prevent smuggling, both underground and above ground. Additionally, “de-radicalization” programs in religious, educational, and welfare institutions would be promoted, involving Arab countries with relevant experience.

Israel would retain security control over the entire area west of the Jordan River from land, sea, and air. Netanyahu has faced pressure, both domestically and internationally, to present proposals for Gaza since the military operation began. The plan aligns with his efforts to reinforce his image as a leader capable of ensuring Israel’s safety, appealing to right-wing hardliners in his coalition government.

The Palestinian Authority, represented by President Mahmoud Abbas’s spokesperson, dismissed Netanyahu’s plan as destined to fail. Abbas’s camp emphasized the need to end the Israeli occupation of Palestinian land for regional security and stability. Netanyahu reiterated his rejection of unilateral recognition of a Palestinian state by Western countries.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated opposition to Israel’s reoccupation of Gaza and any reduction in its size, emphasizing that Gaza should not serve as a platform for terrorism. Negotiators are working towards a temporary ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages, with a desire for a deal before the start of Ramadan. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has intensified, with over 29,500 reported casualties, predominantly women and children.

Amid the conflict, the head of the UN body responsible for Palestinian refugees (Unrwa) warned of a potential “monumental disaster” in Gaza, citing implications for regional peace, security, and human rights. Israel aims to close Unrwa as part of its post-war plan and replace it with unspecified international aid organizations. Netanyahu has insisted on continuing the war until Hamas and Islamic Jihad are dismantled, and all Israeli hostages are returned.

The US has criticized Israel’s expansion of settlements in the occupied West Bank, deeming it inconsistent with international law. This stance reverses a 2019 decision by the Trump administration, which no longer viewed settlements as breaching international law.