Israeli Defense Forces to Maintain Control in Gaza Post-Hamas Conflict

During a recent confrontation with Hamas in the Gaza Strip on January 25, Israeli soldiers made significant advances against terrorist activities. The Israeli Defense Minister, Yoav Gallant, declared to Israeli lawmakers that once the conflict with Hamas concludes, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will secure full military control over the Gaza Strip. This control will emulate the current security operations in Judea and Samaria, allowing Israel to conduct military activities without assuming civilian governance.

Clear Military Objectives

Gallant emphasized that the future of Gaza post-war will not see Hamas at the helm but rather Israeli military oversight. This doesn't equate to civilian control, but it does mean that Israel will have the liberty to execute military operations to maintain security and prevent terrorism. The defense minister illustrated this point by referencing a recent IDF operation in Jenin, where Israeli forces eradicated a threatening Hamas cell.

International and Domestic Views

The international community and the domestic Israeli populace have varied perspectives on Gaza's future governance. The United States has proposed that the Palestinian Authority should take over post-conflict, a suggestion Israel resists due to previous endorsements of terrorism by Ramallah. A Tel Aviv University survey showed that most Jewish Israelis prefer IDF security control, with a minority supporting international or regional Arab security management. Just a small fraction believes the Palestinian Authority should take the lead.

Prime Minister’s Firm Stance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel intends to keep security responsibility over Gaza indefinitely after Hamas's defeat, asserting that a lack of Israeli security presence would only revive terrorism. This position contrasts with that of the Biden administration, which disapproves of the temporary Israeli security measures, such as establishing buffer zones near the border.

Continued Military Operations

The IDF has been active in southern Gaza, targeting Hamas rocket launchers and fortifications. Ground forces have also tightened control around Khan Yunis, a city seen as a stronghold for Hamas leaders. They report significant degradation of Hamas's military capabilities, with a substantial fraction of operatives killed or injured. The defense minister confirmed that the remaining terrorists are facing shortages in supplies and reinforcements, complicating their survival and their ability to continue fighting.

Gallant laid out three objectives for the IDF's ongoing military campaign: to dismantle Hamas, recover Israeli hostages, and maintain national unity. While acknowledging the length of this endeavor, he assured that the IDF is set on defeating Hamas.

IDF, Gaza, Hamas