What It’s About
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, amid discussions on humanitarian aid in Gaza, is formulating strategy with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) to ensure aid distribution occurs securely with military protection. Former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant previously raised concerns about potential military governance implications for Israel in the Gaza Strip during such efforts.
Why It Matters
This strategy aims to prevent looting of humanitarian aid, reportedly a severe issue facing trucks sent to assist Gaza residents. The United Nations termed recent looting incidents as significant in volume since conflicts arising post Hamas’s 2023 attacks.
The Israeli Government’s Approach
Netanyahu has suggested partnering with private entities under IDF oversight to facilitate aid distribution, countering theft and ensuring supplies reach those in need. Discussions within the Cabinet reveal a focus on selecting organizations which will enable study and control over the assistance operations.
Concerns and Criticism
Critics like Gallant argue that this overlap between military involvement and civilian aid distribution may lead to unwanted military governance attachments, bringing potential political ramifications internationally. Despite his dismissal, Gallant’s concerns underline possible shifts toward sustained governance of the strip, opposing initial Israel objectives to replace Hamas with alternative governance forms without assuming control.
Israeli Cabinet Reactions
National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir welcomes military oversight as strategic dismantling of Hamas presence while fulfilling humanitarian responsibilities. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich emphasizes using humanitarian avenues strategically against Hamas and enabling eventual sovereignty restoring actions for the Israeli defense and humanitarian work.
International Response
This newly envisioned approach includes potential financial partnerships, such as suggestions involving the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The economic dynamics are still debatable, pending agreements inclined towards fair shared perspectives securing Gaza’s realization of humanitarian assistance till established civil governance scenarios emerge mutually forcing Hamas out of control.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.