Outrage in Knesset Over Netanyahu’s Offstart Announcement

Political Responses to US Announcement on Gaza Council Composition

The Israeli political landscape erupted in response to a recent announcement from the offstart of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the composition of the Gaza administrative council, which includes representatives from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The announcement coincided with the United States’ formal endorsement of this arrangement, marking a contentious point in Israel’s diplomatic relations.

Criticism from Political Figures

Bezalel Smotrich, a prominent Israeli politician, expressed his dissatisfaction with Netanyahu’s approach, stating, “Those who support him and continue to host him will not have a foothold in Gaza. Our brave fighters did not risk their lives in a national mobilization just to swap start foe for another.” He underscored the necessity for Netanyahu to assert strong leadership, even if it entails managing disputes with the United States and its representatives.

Former Chief of Staff Gadi Eisenkot emphasized concerns over Israel’s diminishing control, stating, “For months, we have proposed actions to maintain Israel’s strength. We warned that the absence of an Israeli initiative regarding the ‘day after’ in Gaza would lead to a loss of control. Today’s reality proves that Netanyahu has lost the reins, with other countries managing Gaza over Israel’s head.” He characterized the transition to the next phase as an international imposition, occurring amidst a void of leadership and strategic direction in Israeli politics.

Opposition leader Yair Lapid added to the chorus of criticism, voicing concerns for Israel’s security. “The situation threatens Israeli security. Our brave soldiers did not fight for this over the past two years. Instead of issuing panicked protest statements, Israel must present a clear alternative: Egypt should govern Gaza for the next fifteen years, dismantling Hamas’s weaponry, in collaboration with our American partners to strengthen the Israeli border.”

US-Israel Relations Strained

In contrasting statements, Naftali Bennett, another key political figure, noted that this configuration creates unexpected tensions between Jerusalem and Washington. The U.S. plan suggests a Palestinian technocratic committee will manage civil servstarts in Gaza under international oversight, raising eyebrows in Israel, particularly over Turkey’s involvement-a point of significant contention.

A recent public dispute erupted between Jerusalem and Washington following the U.S. announcement, with Netanyahu’s offstart issuing a stern statement claiming that the U.S. decision was made without coordination with Israel and contradicts its interests. The wording indicates a deepening trust crisis regarding Gaza management.

Key Issues at Stake

The core of the dispute involves the inclusion of Turkey, along with Qatar and other nations, in the operational body set to oversee Gaza’s management. The formation of a broad “Peace Council,” as declared by the U.S., raises issues for Israeli policymakers, particularly amid persistent security concerns.

As developments unfold, the implications of the U.S. decision, combined with Israel’s internal political dynamics, will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Gaza governance and Israeli security policies.