What’s happening:
A recent survey highlights that a significant majority of the Israeli public backs Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s comprehensive plan for the Gaza Strip “day after” the current conflict ends. This strategic plan encompasses security, civil, and political realms, uniquely combining disarmament measures with socio-economic rehabilitation efforts, overseen potentially by Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Why it matters:
This public consensus indicates a unified front across political spectrums in Israel, recognizing the complexity of transforming Gaza post-conflict. Highlighting the novelty of including Middle Eastern powers like Saudi Arabia and the UAE in Gaza’s rehabilitation, it marks a significant pivot towards a new regional cooperation paradigm, capitalizing on the Abraham Accords momentum. This approach also signifies a move away from traditional UN-led efforts in managing such crises, offering fresh perspectives for durable solutions.
The Survey:
Conducted by the non-profit Tmunat Nitzachon (Victory Image), the survey engaged 495 respondents from diverse Israeli communities. Key findings include that 62% support Netanyahu’s multi-faceted “Day After” Gaza plan, with particular confidence in achieving its security targets. Conversely, significant skepticism remains regarding the full realization of civil and political objectives, underlying the challenges perceived by the populace in these more complex arenas. Remarkably, there’s widespread endorsement from the Israeli public for the hands-on involvement of Gulf states in the post-war management and rebuilding of Gaza.
Public opinion on “Absolute Victory”:
Reflecting on Netanyahu’s goal of “absolute victory,” the public opinion appears divided, with considerable skepticism towards the feasibility of such an aspiration under current circumstances. However, strategic measures such as settlement establishments, educational system reform, and entrusting Gulf states with Gaza’s facelift have been identified as key steps towards this goal, receiving noteworthy acknowledgment from respondents.
Broad backing for Gulf State involvement:
The ambiance of goodwill towards Saudi and UAE participation carries with it the prospects of ushering a transformative blueprint for Gaza, hoping to transform the embattled enclave into a propitious ground for peace and prosperity, enabled through regional cooperation.
Implications for Israeli Policy:
Amidst strong backing for an ambitious post-conflict blueprint, the survey sheds light on public caution over potential hitches in its political and civil judiciary fulfillment, calling on decision-makers to craft a balanced and multi-pronged approach that ensures security imperatives while ambitiously seizing the sociopolitical opportunities heralded by the unique coalition involving Gulf states.
In conclusion:
The survey reflects a resilient Israeli society’s aspiration for a comprehensive resolution bringing peace, security, and prosperity not only to its citizens but also to its neighbors. This forward-looking vision for Gaza, following years of conflict, with substantial backing for involving regional powers in its recovery, sketches an insightful roadmap for both Israeli policy direction and burgeoning Middle East alliances.
This story was first published on ynetnews.com.