|
Trending Topics
|
Source: https://www.jpost.com/opinion/article-827394
Sinwar's Death Is Just the Beginning of Israel's Necessary Moves in the War
(Jerusalem Post) Amb. Zalman Shoval - As the U.S. has confirmed more than once, Hamas, till now, has rejected all compromise proposals presented to it by the mediators or by President Joe Biden for an agreement on the hostages and ending the fighting in Gaza. Hamas has demanded guarantees to maintaining its rule over Gaza and a total and immediate withdrawal of Israeli troops. Basically, Hamas's intention was to come back another day and pursue its aims. After Oct. 7, 2023, Israel's military campaign in Gaza, as well as in the north, is being conducted according to a structured strategic plan. Its goal is to significantly improve Israel's long-term security, while, in the shortest possible time frame, safely returning the hostages as well as the residents both in the Western Negev and in the North to their homes. A no less important goal is the restoration of Israeli deterrence against Iran and its proxies, as well as reinforcing its standing in the region. Without arrangements acceptable to Israel with regard to the postwar situation in Gaza, the war will continue. Instead of reacting to proposals raised by others, Israel will put forward its own ideas. These would probably include, in addition to holding the strategically important Philadelphi and Netzarim corridors, creating a security zone on the eastern and northern sides of Gaza, and ensuring intelligence and, if necessary, military freedom of action in Gaza, similar to Judea and Samaria. The writer was Israel's ambassador to the U.S. twice (1990-1993 and 1998-2000).