Israel and U.S. Diverge on Future Plans for Gaza Post-Conflict

The U.S. has been a staunch supporter of Israel in its conflict with Hamas, the ruling militant group in Gaza. However, divergent post-conflict plans for Gaza have emerged, causing friction between the two nations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently stated that Israel would maintain a continuous security presence in Gaza post-conflict. Israeli authorities are considering establishing a buffer zone along their border with Gaza and have dismissed any involvement of the Palestinian Authority, which lost control of Gaza to Hamas in 2007 but still administers parts of the West Bank.

Contrastingly, the U.S. opposes any Israeli reoccupation of Gaza or alteration of its borders. U.S. officials have advocated for the reinstatement of the Palestinian Authority and the resumption of peace negotiations for a two-state solution.

This divergence has set the stage for challenging discussions between Israel and the U.S.

Complex Dynamics

The conflict escalated when Hamas infiltrated Israel’s southern border on October 7, resulting in the death of approximately 1,200, mostly civilians, and the abduction of over 240 individuals. President Joe Biden swiftly expressed solidarity with Israel, supporting its self-defense and providing military aid.

While the U.S., recognizing Hamas as a terrorist organization, agrees with Israel’s objective of dismantling Hamas, concerns about the humanitarian crisis and civilian casualties in Gaza have been raised. Over 16,000 deaths have been reported in Gaza, with women and children comprising a significant portion. Israel attributes this to Hamas’s tactics of using civilians as shields.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of safeguarding Gaza’s civilian population, warning against actions that could push them towards hostility.

Varying Long-Term Strategies

Prime Minister Netanyahu has hinted at prolonged Israeli control over Gaza post-war, suggesting an extended occupation-like scenario. He has dismissed the possibility of international peacekeepers and rejected the involvement of the Palestinian Authority, questioning its reliability.

Netanyahu’s adviser, Ophir Falk, mentioned plans for Gaza’s demilitarization and de-radicalization, potentially including a buffer zone. This proposal has been communicated to regional and international partners but lacks comprehensive details, raising questions about its feasibility.

In contrast, U.S. officials, including President Biden, insist on a revived role for the Palestinian Authority in Gaza’s future and reject any reduction of Gaza’s territory. The U.S. has been clear in its opposition to any buffer zone that encroaches on Gaza’s existing borders.

Israeli columnist Amos Harel suggests that Netanyahu’s stance may be influenced by domestic politics and coalition pressures, noting opposition within his government to Palestinian independence.

Assessing the Disagreements

Currently, both Israel and the U.S. are focused on the shared objective of neutralizing Hamas. Immediate concerns involve minimizing civilian casualties and facilitating humanitarian aid. Post-conflict, the U.S. is prepared for a transitional phase, but as the civilian toll rises and political pressures mount, these divergences could intensify.

Experts like Eldad Shavit and Daniel Levy anticipate potential tensions if the U.S. perceives Israeli non-compliance or prolonged aggression. However, for now, the U.S. is supportive of Israel’s military objectives.

This report reflects the complex and evolving dynamics between Israel and the U.S. regarding Gaza’s future post-conflict, underlining the challenges in reconciling differing strategic visions.

Reported by Magdy from Cairo.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Israel-U.S. Gaza Relations

More about Israel-U.S. Gaza Relations

• Israel-U.S. Relations and Gaza
• U.S. Support in Israel-Hamas Conflict
• Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
• U.S. Opposition to Gaza Buffer Zone
• Challenges in U.S.-Israel Discussions on Gaza