Former Israeli security officials are divided on how to address the escalating anarchy in the northern Gaza Strip. Many believe that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s lack of a viable plan for governing the enclave hinders progress towards stability. While Netanyahu has proposed Israeli security control over Gaza after the war and rejected the idea of the Palestinian Authority governing the area, there are no simple solutions. Some suggest Israeli occupation of Gaza, but this is met with international opposition.
Former officials and politicians argue that a governing body must be established now to prevent chaos from spreading and to block Hamas from regaining power. They warn that without a comprehensive plan, Israeli soldiers will be stuck in a prolonged war of attrition. Netanyahu’s reluctance to hand over governance to the Palestinian Authority is seen as a reflection of his political priorities.
Some suggest fully occupying Gaza first and then introducing an alternative governing body, but this would require increased resources and defy international calls against such action. Fully occupying Gaza would mean Israeli control over entry and exit points, potentially limiting Hamas movement but also possibly leading to insurgency.
Former officials emphasize the need for a long-term plan to establish stability in Gaza, rather than short-term military operations. They argue that only by occupying the entire area can a new governance structure be set up. The situation remains complex, with no easy solutions on the horizon.
Source
Photo credit www.nytimes.com