“Netanyahu’s Postwar Plan for Gaza Faces Criticism”
In a recent development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented a proposal to his war cabinet outlining a vision for the postwar future of the Gaza Strip. However, critics argue that Netanyahu’s plan, which includes maintaining indefinite military control over the territory, is an attempt to preserve an unsustainable status quo.
The proposal, circulated last Friday, largely echoes principles Netanyahu has voiced since the beginning of the conflict. Key points of the plan include Israel’s commitment to stay in Gaza until demilitarization, eliminating Hamas, and preventing its regrouping. It also involves assuming greater control of Gaza’s southern border, cooperating with Egypt, and disbanding and replacing the United Nations aid agency in the region.
Notably, the proposal rejects any permanent agreement with the Palestinians not achieved through direct negotiations with Israel and opposes the establishment of a “unilateral” Palestinian state. This stance contradicts the expectations of the United States, European nations, and Arab governments, with the Biden administration emphasizing against Israel maintaining an indefinite occupation of Gaza.
In response to Netanyahu’s approach, Palestinian Authority officials in the West Bank rejected the plan, viewing it as an attempt to prolong Israel’s occupation and hinder the establishment of a Palestinian state. Meanwhile, the Palestinian Authority’s prime minister presented the resignation of its entire government on Monday, amid ongoing discussions with the United States and other governments on reforms.
Netanyahu’s rejection of solutions empowering Palestinians is in misalignment with the preferences of the U.S., European partners, and Israel’s Arab neighbors. Despite facing low approval ratings, Netanyahu appears to resist international pressure, potentially attempting to maintain his right-wing coalition’s support.
The recent announcement of plans to expand settlements in the West Bank, despite objections from the Biden administration, further underscores Netanyahu’s divergent approach. This expansion, seen as a significant obstacle to a viable Palestinian state, adds complexity to discussions about a two-state solution.
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