In the twilight of the conflict, Israel stands at the crossroads, faced with pivotal decisions shaping its ongoing involvement across all fronts. Concurrently, as we converse, 133 Israelis remain in Hamas’ captivity, prompting relentless efforts from IDF forces to locate them. Our focus tonight extends to a special report on these endeavors. Presenting footage from Han Younis, where the Egoz Unit engages in a pursuit of Yahya Sinwar. More details on this unfolding operation will follow. The war cabinet convenes this evening to deliberate on the post-conflict landscape. The extended cabinet will further deliberate on this matter. Commencing our coverage is the revelation of the plan unveiled by Minister Galant and the Security forces regarding the aftermath.
Suliman Maswadeh, we turn to you for insights. Good evening, Tali. The political landscape took time to embrace the post-war plan crafted by the security administration. Today, Defense Minister Galant and the security administration present their strategy to the extended cabinet, titled: “the four points of the civilian square.” Let’s delve into the essence of this phrase. The civilian square encompasses Israel, Egypt, a multinational task force, and Palestinians. Israel’s pivotal role involves offering information to guide the civilian endeavors of the multinational task force governing the Gaza Strip. Israel’s oversight on commodities entering the strip intensifies. Egypt assumes a critical responsibility, serving as the primary conduit for Gaza’s civilians, subject to approval by both Israel and Egypt. Collaboration with the United States, potentially under U.S. leadership, is anticipated. Notably, the multinational task force, headed by the United States, encompasses European nations, such as France and the UK, alongside Arab nations with peace agreements or moderate affiliations, including potential involvement from Qatar. Lastly, the Palestinians, as per the Defense Ministry and the Security Administration, will govern the territory, aligning with the Security Administration’s plan designating them as the executive authority.
Yet, an unanswered question lingers regarding the interim period’s management—addressing tasks like debris removal and the resumption of educational activities. Solutions to these challenges remain under development. The plan is set for presentation to the cabinet shortly, in less than two hours. Thank you for the overview, Suliman. You’ll remain with us for further insights. Now, let’s bring in our commentator Roy Sharon to contribute to the discussion.
Given the predominantly right-wing composition of the cabinet, concerns arise about the plan proposed by the Security Administration. The plan, while negating the reinstatement of Israeli settlements in the Gaza Strip, clearly outlines that Palestinians should govern the region. The absence of Israeli presence is emphasized, envisioning potential oversight by Palestinian entities, possibly augmented by Arab nations like the Emirates. Although IDF outposts may initially be present, the ultimate goal is a non-permanent Israeli presence. A central theme in this plan is the concept of “military carte blanche” for Israel within the Gaza Strip. Any perceived threat will be met with force, ensuring unrestricted security and military freedom. This approach explicitly rejects the notion of Israel seeking to reclaim territories akin to Gush Katif. The plan, meticulously coordinated with the Security Administration, IDF, Shin Bet, and the Civilian Administration, has undergone discussions with the United States. While general agreement is expected, finer points may be subject to debate. The plan also emphasizes the need for Egyptian control at the Rafah Checkpoint, addressing historical issues of unregulated traffic, including the transport of anti-tank missiles. International intervention is deemed necessary to establish and oversee this intricate setup.
Despite potential cabinet rejection, the plan offers a glimpse of a post-war horizon, outlining how Israel envisions the Gaza Strip’s future. Presently, discussions revolve around the “almost” scenario, acknowledging the ongoing conflict’s status. As the war progresses, with the IDF actively engaged in Han Younes, the focus remains on achieving necessary objectives in this specific region.
