Gallant: Israel is Considering Possible Alternatives to Hamas

Yoav Gallant, Israel's Defense Minister, stated on Sunday that his country will not accept Hamas's continued dominance over Gaza at any stage of the proposed ceasefire and is examining other alternatives for Hamas. According to the statement, the examination of possible alternatives for Hamas is taking place alongside ongoing 'significant military actions' against the group. Gallant mentioned that some 'areas [in Gaza] will be isolated, we will eliminate Hamas operatives in these areas, and we will introduce forces that will enable the formation of an alternative government - a replacement that threatens Hamas.' He did not refer to any potential alternatives for Hamas. The Israeli Defense Minister stated that the country's military operations, alongside providing the possibility of creating an alternative to Hamas, will eliminate this Islamist group supported by the Islamic Republic and facilitate the return of hostages. Hamas won the parliamentary elections in the Gaza Strip in 2006 and a year later took control of Gaza following brief conflicts with Palestinian Authority forces. The Israeli security cabinet is expected to hold a meeting late on Sunday. This meeting follows President Joe Biden's speech on Friday regarding a three-phase plan to end the war in Gaza. Additionally, it is noted that despite welcoming this peace proposal, Hamas has not indicated that it might relinquish power or voluntarily disarm its forces. Netanyahu accepted an invitation from American lawmakers to speak in Congress. Netanyahu's advisor stated that Biden's plan for Gaza is 'not a good agreement,' but Israel will accept it. A joint statement from Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. urged Hamas and Israel to finalize the ceasefire agreement. Families of Israeli hostages welcomed Biden's proposed plan to end the war in Gaza. Netanyahu emphasized that a permanent ceasefire cannot be established without the destruction of Hamas and the release of all hostages.