By S. Adam, Jadetimes News
Gantz Threatens Resignation Over Gaza Post-War Plan as Netanyahu Faces Internal and External Pressure
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has intensified diplomatic efforts from the United States, with President Joe Biden's national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, urging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to develop a comprehensive political strategy for Gaza's future. Sullivan's recent visit to Israel, following discussions in Saudi Arabia, underscores the urgency of linking military operations in Gaza with a broader political framework.
Netanyahu has primarily focused on achieving "total victory" in Gaza, but he has yet to outline a clear vision for the territory's post-war future. This lack of a plan has led to significant internal political tension. War cabinet minister Benny Gantz has threatened to resign unless a post-war strategy is presented, advocating for the end of Israeli military rule in Gaza. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant supports this view, contrasting sharply with some far-right members of Netanyahu's coalition who argue for continued control to defeat Hamas.
The White House has emphasized the importance of Israel connecting its military actions to a political strategy that ensures the lasting defeat of Hamas, the release of hostages, and a better future for Gaza. Sullivan also discussed the potential for normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia and pursuing a two-state solution for lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Amid these diplomatic efforts, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. The United Nations reports that around 800,000 people have been displaced from Rafah due to Israeli military operations targeting Hamas strongholds. Despite Israeli claims of targeting Hamas, civilian casualties and widespread displacement have been severe. Recently, an Israeli airstrike on the Nuseirat refugee camp resulted in 31 deaths and 20 injuries, as reported by Gaza's Hamas-run civil defense agency. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continue operations across Gaza, with intense battles and further casualties on both sides.
Benny Gantz has set a June 8 deadline for a post-war strategy, outlining goals such as ending Hamas rule and establishing a multinational civilian administration for Gaza. However, Netanyahu has dismissed these suggestions, arguing they could lead to the establishment of a Palestinian state, which he opposes.
The conflict in Gaza, which began in response to a major Hamas attack last year that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and 252 hostages, continues to escalate. With over 35,456 reported deaths in Gaza since the conflict's start, the humanitarian crisis is worsening.
As the international community, led by the US, presses for a comprehensive political strategy, the need for a balanced approach addressing security concerns, humanitarian needs, and long-term political solutions becomes ever more critical. The Biden administration's push for a political framework aims to bring lasting peace and stability to Gaza, highlighting the necessity of a strategic vision for the region's future.
