Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant has announced Israel’s plans for the next phase of its offensive in Gaza, as well as its vision for the future of the besieged enclave after the war.
In the northern region of Gaza, new combat strategies will be employed based on military gains on the ground. This will involve raids, tunnel demolitions, air and ground strikes, and special forces operations. In the south, efforts will continue to eliminate Hamas leaders and rescue Israeli hostages, as long as necessary.
Gallant also outlined Israel’s post-war plans, stating that Hamas will no longer control Gaza and Israel will maintain its operational freedom. However, there will be no Israeli civilian presence, and Palestinian bodies will be in charge, provided they do not pose any threat to Israel.
Israel has reiterated its stance that there is no place for Hamas in the civilian structures of Gaza after the war. Plans for a “multi-national task force” comprising Western and Arab nations to govern the border area and assist in the restructuring and redevelopment of Gaza have also been revealed. Additionally, Israel will have complete freedom to conduct military operations in Gaza.
Despite these plans, Hamas remains steadfast in its refusal to leave the territory and continues to battle Israeli ground troops in central and southern Gaza. The ongoing military operations have led to the displacement of nearly 1.9 million people, with many of them facing dire humanitarian conditions in overcrowded shelters.