Israel Considers Alternative Gaza Governance Amid Uncertainty Over Cease-Fire Deal

Israel is exploring the possibility of establishing an alternative local governing body for Gaza, announced Defense Minister Yoav Gallant on Sunday, as the nation seeks a future beyond Hamas amidst mounting pressure to accept a new cease-fire deal proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden.

The proposal, aimed at navigating the current eight-month war, underscores Israel's intent to remove Hamas from power in Gaza while addressing the humanitarian crisis and security concerns in the region. Gallant's remarks came amid growing uncertainty surrounding the cease-fire negotiations and escalating tensions within the Israeli government.

Gallant, a member of Israel's three-member War Cabinet, emphasized the need for a detailed postwar plan for Gaza, advocating for a governing alternative to Hamas. He outlined a framework that entails isolating areas, removing Hamas operatives, and introducing other forces to facilitate the formation of a new governance structure.

Stressing Israel's refusal to accept Hamas rule, Gallant underscored the imperative of achieving the nation's goals of dismantling Hamas' military and governing authority in Gaza and securing the release of hostages abducted during the conflict.

In response to inquiries, an Israeli defense official elaborated on Gallant's vision, highlighting the aspiration to establish isolated, Hamas-free zones in Gaza that would serve as hubs of local government. The official emphasized the search for local non-hostile actors to govern Palestinians, with Israel facilitating aid surges to bolster their authority.

However, analysts caution that this approach, though challenging, has encountered difficulties in the past, with Hamas' continued influence posing formidable obstacles to potential alternative leaders.

Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting pressure from various quarters, with calls to accept Biden's cease-fire proposal amid threats of government collapse from far-right allies opposed to the deal. Netanyahu has advocated for maintaining security control over Gaza while delegating civilian administration to local Palestinians unaffiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority.

The U.S. has proposed a reformed Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza with the assistance of Arab and Muslim nations, though Netanyahu has ruled out a path to Palestinian statehood.

The recent escalation in violence stems from the Oct. 7 Hamas attack in southern Israel, which precipitated the ongoing conflict and resulted in numerous casualties and abductions. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza has worsened, with displaced civilians facing dire conditions amid widespread destruction. Efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing into Gaza have stalled, exacerbating the delivery of essential humanitarian aid to the territory.

As the cease-fire negotiations continue, the United States maintains pressure on Israel to accept the proposed deal, with hopes of bringing an end to the protracted conflict and alleviating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. However, challenges persist, with Hamas' influence and Israel's security concerns complicating efforts to reach a resolution. Amidst the uncertainties, the fate of Gaza hangs in the balance, with the specter of continued violence looming over the region.