Far-Right Israeli Ministers Reject US Postwar Gaza Governance Plan
In a significant diplomatic setback, far-right members of Israel’s governing coalition have rejected a US-backed plan for postwar governance in Gaza, criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to annex the territory and establish new Israeli settlements. The move underscores the deep divisions within Netanyahu’s coalition and raises questions about the future of US-Israel relations in the Middle East.
The US-Brokered Plan: A Controversial Proposal
The White House announced this week the creation of a “Gaza executive board,” which is part of a broader “board of peace” chaired by Donald Trump. The executive board, described as having an advisory role, includes representatives from regional and international partners such as Turkey and Qatar. The aim is to oversee the transition of Gaza’s governance following the end of the war.
Advisory Role and International Involvement
The board is intended to provide guidance on security, reconstruction, and humanitarian efforts in Gaza. However, its inclusion of Turkey and Qatar, both of which have been critical of Israel’s war in the strip, has drawn fierce criticism from Israel’s far-right factions.
Bezalel Smotrich’s Criticism of Netanyahu
Israeli far-right finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, described Netanyahu’s “unwillingness to take responsibility for Gaza” as “the original sin.” Smotrich, a settler in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, argued that the Israeli prime minister should instead “establish a military government there, to encourage immigration and settlement, and in this way to ensure Israel’s security for many years.”
Smotrich’s Stance on Gaza
Smotrich’s remarks reflect a hardline approach to Gaza, one that prioritizes Israeli control over the territory. He tweeted, “The countries that inspired Hamas cannot be the ones that replace it. Those who support it and continue to host it even now will not be granted a foothold in Gaza. Period.” He added, “The prime minister must stand firm on this, even if it requires managing a dispute with our great friend and President Trump’s emissaries.”
Netanyahu’s Challenge: Balancing Coalition Interests
Netanyahu convened a meeting with coalition partners on Sunday, attempting to assess his next move. His central challenge is containing his far-right allies, whose continued participation in the government is key to his political survival. The coalition has never agreed to a US-brokered ceasefire struck last October, highlighting the deep ideological rifts within the government.
Netanyahu’s Objections to the Plan
Netanyahu himself objected to the plan on Saturday, citing how some of the appointments were “not coordinated with Israel and were contrary to its policy,” without specifying who. He instructed his foreign minister, Gideon Sa’ar, to contact the US secretary of state, Marco Rubio, to address these concerns.
Tensions with Turkey and Qatar
Israel has previously objected strongly to any Turkish role in postwar Gaza, with relations between the two countries having deteriorated sharply since the war began in October 2023. The inclusion of Qatar in the executive board has also been contentious, given its alleged support for Hamas.
Regional Diplomacy and Security Concerns
The US-backed plan is part of a broader effort to stabilize the region and ensure long-term security. However, the inclusion of countries like Turkey and Qatar, which have differing perspectives on the conflict, has complicated the diplomatic landscape. Netanyahu’s government is now faced with the challenge of balancing its far-right coalition’s demands with the need for international cooperation.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
Postwar, the suffering in Gaza continues, with storms causing flooding and deaths in displacement camps. The conflict has displaced thousands, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis underscores the urgency of a viable governance plan. The far-right’s rejection of the US-backed plan could further delay efforts to address the crisis.
Storms and Displacement Camps
Recent storms have exacerbated the situation in Gaza, with flooding in displacement camps leading to deaths and further displacement. The lack of a cohesive governance plan has left humanitarian organizations struggling to provide adequate support to those affected.
The Way Forward: Diplomacy or Annexation?
As the situation in Gaza remains volatile, the question of whether to pursue diplomatic solutions or annexation looms large. Netanyahu’s government is under intense pressure to navigate these complex issues while maintaining stability within its coalition. The far-right’s rejection of the US-backed plan could signal a shift in Israel’s approach to the conflict, with implications for the entire region.
International Reactions and Next Steps
The international community is closely watching the developments in Gaza. The US, in particular, is likely to seek a resolution that aligns with its broader Middle East strategy. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the US and Israel can find common ground on the future of Gaza.
