In the pursuit of its objectives against Hamas, Israel has made significant strides in crippling the militant faction's armed capabilities. However, National Unity MK Ze’ev Elkin, chair of the Knesset’s Subcommittee for Foreign Policy and Public Diplomacy, raised concerns in a recent interview about the inadequacy of these measures in dismantling Hamas's civilian structures. Elkin emphasized that the National Security Cabinet's war goals extend beyond military defeat; they also aim to dismantle Hamas's governance in Gaza. He warned that neglecting to remove Hamas-affiliated civil officials could allow the group to retain control over the population and eventually rebuild its military wing.
Elkin highlighted the complex role of UN facilities, particularly those run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA). He pointed out that many shelters in Gaza, ostensibly under UNRWA, are actually controlled by Hamas, increasing civilian dependency on the organization. Elkin proposed that Israeli forces should actively remove Hamas members from administrative roles in these shelters, particularly in areas like northern Gaza.
UNRWA 2017 - condemns tunnels built under its schools in Gaza
— Queen of Broccoli 🥦👑 (@jobellerina) January 18, 2024
UNWRA 2023 - responding to a q. if they had any indication of tunnels being dug under the city:
"No, not to us"
UNWRA are complicit, lying, terrorist enablers.#defundUNRWA #DefundTheUN
pic.twitter.com/HPXHtY4vaY pic.twitter.com/6NIB5lyRC9
Addressing the broader political landscape, Elkin criticized the Israeli government's cooperation with UNRWA. He accused the agency of perpetuating the Palestinian refugee issue and cited incidents where UNRWA educators allegedly expressed support for anti-Israel activities. Elkin advocates for an international campaign to reduce financial support to UNRWA, especially from major contributors like the United States.
Elkin also linked the insufficient handling of Hamas's civilian wing to what he sees as the government's flawed strategy of withdrawing troops from key areas in Gaza, such as refugee camps. This, he argues, undermines Israel's efforts to dismantle Hamas's military presence and impacts negotiations for the release of hostages held by Hamas.
Elkin expressed skepticism towards the U.S. administration's goal of reinstating the Palestinian Authority (PA) in Gaza post-conflict. He questioned the PA's capability and support, citing its radicalization and continued financial support to individuals involved in acts against Israel. Despite acknowledging the possibility of change within the PA, Elkin stressed the urgency of finding an immediate alternative to Hamas's rule in Gaza.
Israel not doing enough to dismantle Hamas civilian wing, coalition MK charges: National Unity MK Ze'ev Elkin said the war's goal is not only to defeat Hamas militarily but also to take apart its capability to rule the Strip. https://t.co/NCLcF8yi1M JPost pic.twitter.com/4kfPcwABHx
— Jewish Community (@JComm_NewsFeeds) January 18, 2024
Finally, Elkin critiqued the government's proposed 2024 budget, labeling the projected debt as excessive and irresponsible. He called for investment in growth engines and structural reforms to support the economy post-conflict. Despite his criticisms, Elkin affirmed National Unity's commitment to the coalition government, emphasizing the priority of defeating Hamas to secure Israel's strategic future.
