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Two representatives, one Democrat and one Republican, expressed support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s proposal for Israel to take control of Gaza on Sunday.
Representatives Rick Crawford, R-Ark., and Josh Gottheimer, D-N.J., appeared on a news program after visiting Israel. Netanyahu’s office faced criticism after the security cabinet approved a plan for the IDF to assume full control of Gaza.
Crawford argued that this plan would ensure the safety of hostages held by Hamas.
“Under the current conditions, the hostages face a greater risk of harm compared to if the IDF takes action,” Crawford stated. “Hamas is essentially starving them, and this starvation is primarily affecting the hostages they are holding.”
Gottheimer supported the idea of Israel taking temporary control of Gaza, with the condition that a new governing structure is established after Hamas is defeated.
“There is no intention for long-term occupation or annexation, which I believe is the right approach,” Gottheimer said. “The goal is to defeat Hamas, provide humanitarian aid, and establish a new governing system.”
Gottheimer also mentioned the possibility of a multinational Arab force maintaining peace in Gaza in the long run.
Netanyahu and the security cabinet approved a plan to retake control of the entire Gaza territory and eventually transfer authority to Arab forces opposed to Hamas.
The plan includes disarming Hamas, the return of all hostages, demilitarization of Gaza, Israeli security control in the region, and the establishment of a new civil administration.
The discussion of a full military occupation of Gaza comes two decades after Israel’s disengagement from the area, which led to Hamas seizing control of the territory.
This report includes contributions from news reporter Bradford Betz.
