Netanyahu Signals ‘Trump’s Vision’ Entering New Chapter for Gaza Control
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has announced that Israel is poised to embark on the “next phase” of what he termed “Trump’s plan” for Gaza. The declaration, made following the recovery of the body of the last Israeli hostage, signals a critical juncture in the ongoing regional developments.
Strategic Objectives for Gaza
Netanyahu clarified that this impending phase primarily aims to achieve two key objectives: the complete disarmament of Hamas and Israel’s full control over the Gaza Strip. Significantly, the rebuilding of cities within Gaza is not designated as an immediate priority. The Prime Minister emphasized the critical need to accelerate this phase to ensure the comprehensive attainment of Israel’s war objectives.
Analyst Perspectives and Operational Hurdles
However, Israeli military and political analysts, as reported by Anadolu Agency, suggest that the path forward is fraught with complexities, with the recent reopening of the Rafah crossing being merely the initial challenge for Netanyahu’s administration.
Amos Harel, a senior analyst, pointed out that Hamas’s success in locating most of the hostage bodies indicates a more robust and organized control over northern Gaza than initially assessed. Military analyst Amir Bohbot expressed concerns within the Israeli army that the United States might initiate reconstruction efforts in Rafah concurrently with, rather than subsequent to, the disarmament of Hamas. This scenario is viewed as a significant test for all parties involved. Another analyst, Dani Zakine, underscored Israel’s perspective: the inability to disarm Hamas would render other provisions of the “second phase” unattainable.
Future Outlook and Reconstruction Conference
Amidst these strategic deliberations, an international conference dedicated to the reconstruction of Gaza is anticipated to take place within the next two weeks, according to current assessments. This highlights the diverging priorities and potential points of contention regarding the region’s future.
