In a groundbreaking move, the Israeli military (IDF) is set to establish humanitarian compounds in the northern and central regions of the Gaza Strip, reports Israel Hayom. This initiative, backed by the Israeli government, aims to ensure that aid directly reaches Gaza's civilians, circumventing the control of Hamas, recognized as a terrorist organization by Israel and several other countries.
Hamas has been known to intercept aid, a challenge that has plagued international agencies such as UNRWA. The IDF's strategy intends to address this by closely monitoring the distribution of humanitarian assistance, thus preventing misappropriation by Hamas.
IDF to be tasked with distributing humanitarian aid distribution. The plan will try to prevent humanitarian aid from reaching Hamas, This is indeed good news. Finally the start of an end to UNRWA and other collusion with Hamas. https://t.co/dBBgZkGTWr
โ Shlomi Stern Kuker (@RealPolitik_NYC) January 31, 2024
This plan is still in its embryonic stage, with potential collaboration with international bodies to ensure effective and safe aid distribution. Israelโs Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, while affirming that Israel has no intention of assuming civil governance in Gaza post-conflict, left open the question of future administrative arrangements as the situation evolves.
Adding a new dimension to this narrative, The Jerusalem Post disclosed a multi-stage plan, reportedly spearheaded by a consortium of businessmen allied with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. This plan envisions an initial phase of military governance focused on humanitarian aid and civil oversight, reflecting a concerted effort to dismantle Hamas's governmental role and mitigate its influence over Gaza's population.
However, the proposal has received mixed reactions. Israeli lawmaker Sharren Haskel of the National Unity party, led by War Cabinet Minister Benny Gantz, expressed reservations, suggesting that non-military organizations with relevant expertise could be more suitable for executing these tasks without risking IDF personnel.
IDF should distribute humanitarian aid directly; relying on UN agencies like terror-supporting UNRWA is both ineffective and supports the enemy (Hamas). https://t.co/Q90PpqXqMD
โ Am Yisroel Chai (@Am_Yisroel_Chai) January 31, 2024
In contrast, members of the original right-wing coalition have largely endorsed the plan, viewing it as a strategic move to weaken Hamas's grip on Gaza. They argue that this approach could simultaneously facilitate humanitarian aid delivery and strengthen efforts to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since October 7.
According to the directive of the political echelon, the IDF is preparing a plan for the distribution of humanitarian aid to the residents of the Gaza Strip, directly by the IDF, in order to prevent food from reaching Hamas terrorists. pic.twitter.com/1CaAYs4upg
โ ืืื ื ืื ืื ืื yoni ben menachem (@yonibmen) January 31, 2024
As Israel Hayom concludes, the IDF is awaiting further directives from the political leadership. The unfolding scenario reflects the complex dynamics of delivering aid in conflict zones and Israel's commitment to exploring innovative solutions for the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, while simultaneously addressing the security challenges posed by Hamas.
