Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has proposed that Gaza should be managed by a civil administration with the assistance of Arab countries after the ongoing conflict. According to Netanyahu, this administration would focus on teaching people that their future does not depend on 'destroying Israel and killing all the Jews on the face of the earth.' He emphasized that the Civil Administration would be responsible for distributing aid while the international community would handle reconstruction efforts.
However, Arab countries have rejected Netanyahu's invitation to participate in the management of Gaza post-war. The Arab Five-Year Committee, which includes Saudi Arabia, the Emirates, Qatar, Jordan, and Egypt, has made it clear that their financial and political support would only come in exchange for a clear path to establishing a Palestinian state. Palestinian factions have also opposed the presence of any international or Arab force in Gaza, considering it an occupation.
Netanyahu also highlighted a need for broad demilitarization in Gaza, which he believes can only be achieved by Israel. He defended his recent criticism of the United States for delays in delivering weapons and ammunition to Israel, stating that it was 'absolutely necessary' to air his concerns after months of unsuccessful discussions with US officials.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with the World Health Organization (WHO) indicating that the daily truce announced by the Israeli army has had 'no impact' on the arrival of humanitarian aid. The truce was supposed to allow aid to travel safely from the Israeli Kerem Shalom crossing to the European Union hospital in Rafah. However, aid workers have reported minimal impact due to security concerns and limited fuel supplies, which are essential for electricity, hospitals, and basic services like bakeries.
- Netanyahu's statements have sparked significant controversy, particularly regarding his claims about the role of education in fostering extremism in Gaza. The Israeli Consul in Dubai, Liron Zaslansky, echoed these sentiments at a United Nations session, alleging that schools in Gaza teach 'terrorism' and that the Palestinian Authority incites violence.
- Human rights organizations have condemned Israel's actions in Gaza, particularly the targeting of schools and universities. According to the Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor, 90% of government school buildings have been damaged, and around 130 government schools are being used as shelter centers. The targeting of educators and students has further hindered the advancement of education in the region.
- The humanitarian and health situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The UN has reported that the entry of humanitarian aid has been minimal, and aid workers face significant challenges in reaching affected areas due to security concerns. Limited fuel supplies exacerbate the crisis, impacting everything from hospital operations to the functioning of bakeries.
