Benny Gantz Acknowledges Mistake in Evacuating Northern Residents
In a candid address at the MEAD conference in Washington, Benny Gantz, chairman of the state camp, admitted that the decision to evacuate a significant portion of the northern population at the onset of the war in October was a "mistake." Gantz emphasized that only the settlements and kibbutzim adjacent to the border should have been evacuated, taking full responsibility for the decision made during a period of heightened insecurity. He stated, "We are late; the time of the North has come. We need to ensure that we can return the residents to their homes."
Call for Military Action to Secure Hostages
Gantz further asserted that if a hostage deal is not reached within a limited timeframe, military action in the north is imperative. He reiterated that a true victory would be defined by the return of abducted individuals to their families and the safe return of residents to their homes. He noted that achieving this goal may necessitate aggressive measures, potentially impacting Lebanon directly. Gantz stated, "I see no other way, unfortunately," highlighting the urgency of the situation.
Addressing the Iranian Threat
In his remarks, Gantz also stressed the importance of addressing the Iranian threat, which he identified as the root of regional instability. He argued for increased military, political, and economic pressure on Iran, emphasizing that any future nuclear agreements must include stringent limitations on Iran's military capabilities and its financing of proxy groups. Gantz declared, "Iran is a global, regional challenge and really not just a problem for Israel," urging a collective international effort to counteract Iranian influence.
- Benny Gantz's statements at the MEAD conference come at a critical time for Israel as tensions escalate in the region. His emphasis on military readiness and the need for a proactive approach signals a shift in strategy, particularly concerning the northern front and the threat posed by Hezbollah and Iranian-backed groups. Gantz's call for a regional alliance against Iran highlights the necessity for collaborative efforts among countries in the Middle East to ensure stability and security. Moreover, Gantz's comments on the importance of normalization with Saudi Arabia reflect a broader strategy to enhance regional partnerships, which could lead to improved security and economic cooperation among Arab nations and Israel. The presence of the Saudi ambassador at the conference underscores the potential for diplomatic advancements in the region.
