Israel has no intentions of occupying Gaza after the conclusion of the ongoing conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas, according to a statement by a senior advisor to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Mark Regev emphasized during an online media briefing that Israel's goal is not to rule over Gaza but to ensure its demilitarization. The conflict, which began when Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
Regev stated that a future Palestinian government could be established after removing Hamas from the enclave, blaming the group for bringing "bloodshed and impoverishment" to the people of Gaza. Israel's international partners are expected to play a role in the reconstruction of Gaza, with Regev noting that Arab countries would be involved in the rebuilding process.
Highlighting that Hamas has limited support in the Arab world, except for Qatar, where its leadership reportedly resides, Regev expressed the view that Israel's victory would contribute to regional peace efforts. Despite ongoing military operations by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Gaza, the Israeli government has not outlined its post-conflict plans for the enclave.
While pursuing its objective of dismantling Hamas infrastructure, Israel is engaged in negotiations, involving Qatar and the United States, to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas. Regev indicated that a temporary ceasefire could be considered if hostages, including children and the elderly, are released.
He criticized Hamas for preventing international humanitarian organizations like the Red Cross from assessing the well-being of the hostages and insisted on their unconditional release.
Responding to questions about proof of life for the hostages, Regev stated that Israel lacks specific information on their condition but has relied on its own intelligence.
Amid reports suggesting potential exchanges, Regev clarified that Israel advocates for the unconditional release of the hostages and has not indicated a willingness to swap them for Palestinian prisoners, contrary to earlier suggestions in Israeli media.
(With Agency Inputs)
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