Israel’s plan for the “day after” Hamas has been defeated will soon be implemented in northern Gaza, according to National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi.
Speaking at Reichman University Herzliya Conference, Hanegbi emphasised that the IDF’s plan has been refined in recent weeks.
“We don’t have to wait for Hamas to disappear, because it is a long process,” says Hanegbi.
“We can’t get rid of Hamas as an idea, there we need an alternative idea.”
The alternative involves a government based on local leaders willing to coexist with Israel, backed by moderate Arab states.
He continued: “The minute Hamas’s ability to operate its military and civil systems like it could on October 7 is taken away, there will be more ability for countries that want to see a governing alternative to Hamas in Gaza, with local leadership in Gaza, to join this process.
“It’s starting to take form now.”
Family members of hostages, including Ayala Metzger (whose father-in-law, Yoram Metzger, is currently kidnapped in Gaza) and Dani Elgarat (whose brother Itzik Elgarat is also held in the Strip), have expressed their frustration with the government.
But Hanegbi acknowledges that time is not in the hostages’ favour but remains optimistic about ongoing efforts to reach a deal.
“Today the massive international pressure is on Hamas; there is a chance it will work,” he explains.
Additionally, Qatar faces pressure to support a proposal presented by US President Joe Biden on May 31. Hanegbi calls that offer “an Israeli proposal” with the importance to bring all hostages home.
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant held several meetings with US officials to discuss the question of a hostage deal, saying “I have been dealing with this issue since the first day [of the war].
“And I would like to emphasise that it is Israel’s primary commitment to return the hostages, with no exception, to their families and homes. We will continue to make every possible effort to bring them home.”