Israeli President Isaac Herzog stated that a “very strong force” may need to remain in Gaza to prevent the resurgence of the Hamas militant group after the ongoing conflict. He emphasized the need to avoid leaving a vacuum and discussed various ideas for the post-war governance of Gaza, expressing the expectation of U.S. and regional involvement.
However, U.S. President Joe Biden countered this stance, cautioning against the occupation of Gaza and highlighting that a two-state solution is the only viable resolution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Biden expressed concerns that occupying Gaza would be a “big mistake.”
The Palestinian Authority asserts that Gaza is an integral part of its vision for a future Palestinian state. Meanwhile, Israel, while vowing to destroy Hamas, has not presented a clear plan for the governance of Gaza post-conflict, with Prime Minister Netanyahu suggesting an indefinite period of overall security responsibility.
The focus of Israel’s military operations has centered on Gaza’s largest hospital, Al Shifa, where Israel claims Hamas stored weapons and operated a command center in tunnels beneath the buildings. Biden accused Hamas of committing war crimes by placing its military headquarters under the hospital.
Israeli forces have raided Al Shifa multiple times, with the military reporting the recovery of weapons and equipment. However, Hamas denies these allegations, calling for international verification through organizations like the United Nations, the World Health Organization, and the Red Cross.
As the conflict continues, the U.S. has increased its military presence in the Middle East to prevent the escalation of the conflict and deter Iranian involvement, given Iran’s historical support for Hamas.
Jordan strongly condemned Israel’s shelling around a Jordanian field hospital in Gaza, pledging legal and political action pending the results of an army investigation.
In response to Hamas’s October 7 attack, Israel imposed a strict blockade on Gaza, conducting airstrikes and a ground offensive. The conflict has resulted in thousands of casualties, extensive displacement, and widespread destruction. The United Nations Security Council has called for humanitarian pauses in the fighting and the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas.
While Israel rejects calls for a ceasefire, Qatar-mediated negotiations have explored a potential three-day truce, contingent on the release of captives by both parties. The situation remains complex and tense, with regional and international actors actively involved in diplomatic efforts.
