Gaza's prolonged security Israel's responsibility for 'indefinite period': PM Netanyahu

Israel-Hamas Conflict: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed in a recent interview that Israel is set to maintain an "indefinite security responsibility" over the Gaza Strip following the conflict with Hamas, according to The Times of Israel.

The post-conflict situation in Gaza raises concerns about how Israel plans to oversee the region's security.

Security Responsibility for an Indefinite Period

Netanyahu stated to ABC News, "I think Israel will for an indefinite period have security responsibility." He highlighted the consequences of relinquishing security responsibility, citing the eruption of Hamas terror.

The Origins of the Conflict

The conflict with Hamas began after around 3,000 individuals breached the Gaza border on October 7, resulting in approximately 1,400 casualties, primarily civilians, and the abduction of over 240 people, including 30 children.

Acknowledging Responsibility

During the interview, Netanyahu admitted to some degree of responsibility for the defense failure that allowed Hamas to carry out its actions on October 7. When asked about responsibility, Netanyahu responded positively, indicating a need for a post-war evaluation.

Security Oversight in Gaza

While Netanyahu did not provide specific details about Israel's security oversight in Gaza, it is expected to involve an extended military presence. Israel, however, clarified that it has no intentions of reoccupying the enclave, from which it withdrew unilaterally in 2005.

US Position on Gaza

The Biden administration opposes an Israeli reoccupation of Gaza and calls for Israel to devise a governance plan for the region once Hamas loses power. Suggestions include the Palestinian Authority replacing Hamas, though doubts persist about the PA's stability and reliability.

Maintaining a Buffer

Israeli officials emphasise the need to maintain a military presence in Gaza as a buffer to protect Israeli civilians. Since the 2005 withdrawal, Gaza has experienced frequent rocket attacks and the threat of offensive attack tunnels. Israeli forces have been actively targeting Hamas's underground tunnels and military capabilities during the current campaign.

Netanyahu's Media Engagement

Netanyahu's interview with ABC marked his first appearance in American media since the war began. He had previously engaged with multiple American networks to address concerns about his government's judicial overhaul efforts. However, Netanyahu has avoided engaging with mainstream Israeli media since assuming office in December, protecting himself from critics.

Taking Responsibility

During the interview, Netanyahu faced persistent questions about his responsibility for failing to anticipate the massive Hamas attack and the delayed military response. He reiterated his willingness to answer tough questions and allocate responsibility after the war.

Differing Opinions

Netanyahu has faced criticism in Israel for not acknowledging his responsibility during the month since the war started. Unlike other high-ranking officials who have accepted personal accountability, he has deferred the scrutiny to a post-war period.

Flexibility in Ceasefire

Netanyahu hinted at flexibility regarding humanitarian pauses in the fighting, potentially agreeing to a ceasefire if Hamas releases the hostages held in Gaza. He stressed the importance of limiting civilian casualties while recognising Hamas's use of the population as human shields.

US-Israel Coordination

Netanyahu emphasised coordination with the United States on humanitarian aid to Gaza while safeguarding IDF soldiers' safety. The US calls for temporary localised pauses in the fighting to ensure humanitarian aid delivery and facilitate hostage releases.

Casualty Figures

Gaza health authorities, under Hamas control, reported a death toll of more than 10,000 people, including women and children, in the ongoing conflict. These figures are challenging to independently verify and may include casualties caused by both Hamas terrorists and rockets fired within Gaza.

IDF Operations

The IDF continues to intensify pressure on Gaza City, targeting Hamas field commanders and dismantling tunnels used by the group, as reported by The Times of Israel.