Israel’s defense minister, Yoav Gallant, stated on Sunday that the country would not accept Hamas continuing to rule Gaza at any stage during the process to wind down the war. He⁰ emphasized that the defense establishment is simultaneously assessing alternatives to the Islamist group.
Military Action and Governance Alternatives
Kabul 24: While conducting military actions, the defense establishment is examining a governing alternative to Hamas, Gallant said.
This alternative would involve isolating areas in Gaza, removing Hamas operatives, and introducing forces that would enable an alternative government to form. This alternative would threaten Hamas’s authority, he added.
Hamas Rule in Gaza
Hamas has ruled the Gaza Strip since 2007, following parliamentary elections and a brief civil war with security forces from the Western-backed Palestinian Authority. The group has maintained control over the region despite international pressure and sanctions.
War Cabinet Meeting and U.S. Framework Deal
Israel’s war cabinet, which includes Gallant, is expected to meet later in the day to discuss the ongoing war. This comes after U.S. President Joe Biden presented a framework deal for winding down the Gaza war. Hamas has provisionally welcomed the initiative but has given no indication it might step aside or disarm voluntarily.
Removing Hamas Authority and Returning Hostages
Gallant emphasized that Israel’s military operation, combined with the potential for governing alternatives, would allow the removal of Hamas’ authority and the return of hostages. He reiterated that Israel would not accept the rule of Hamas in Gaza at any stage in any process aimed at ending the war.
Uncertainty Surrounds Hamas’s Response
Hamas has not indicated whether it would step aside or disarm voluntarily. The group’s response to the proposed framework deal and Israel’s alternatives remains uncertain, adding to the ongoing tensions in the region
