Gantz's Ultimatum: If an Operational Plan to Achieve Strategic Goals is Not Presented Within 20 Days, I Will Exit the Coalition with Netanyahu

Benny Gantz, Israel's Minister of War, issued an ultimatum to Prime Minister Netanyahu during a critical press conference, stating that if an operational plan to achieve strategic goals is not presented by June 9, he will exit the coalition with him. He outlined these goals as including the return of hostages, the overthrow of Hamas, the demilitarization of Gaza, regaining Israeli security control over Gaza, establishing an international civilian governance mechanism for Gaza, returning northern residents to their homes by September 1, and progressing towards normalizing relations with Saudi Arabia. Gantz acknowledged that achieving these goals would not be easy but emphasized that with clear and bold definitions of objectives, a long path to the summit could be chosen. He also mentioned his discussions with world and Arab leaders, expressing confidence that his strategic goals are attainable. Gantz stated that leadership must see the big picture, identify risks and opportunities, and create an updated national strategy. He stressed that Israel will maintain full responsibility for its security and will not allow any foreign power, friend or foe, to impose a Palestinian state on Israel. Gantz clearly declared that Israel will pursue Hamas and all its enemies under any circumstances, at any time and place. Earlier, Yoav Gallant, Israel's Defense Minister, had urged Netanyahu to make 'difficult decisions' to advance a non-Hamas governance in Gaza after the group's destruction, regardless of potential personal and political costs, as he claimed the achievements of the war are fading and Israel's long-term security is at risk. Gallant warned in his televised speech that he would not agree to Israeli civilian or military governance over Gaza after the war and that governance by other Palestinian groups and international actors would be beneficial for Israel. The Defense Minister's opposition to Israel governing Gaza aligns with statements from American and European officials regarding the need for Netanyahu to present a sustainable plan for Gaza's administration after Hamas's defeat. Following the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of over 250 others, Israel launched an assault on Gaza aimed at destroying this group supported by the Islamic Republic and recovering the hostages. During negotiations mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt last fall, over 100 abducted hostages were released, but 133 Israeli hostages remain captive in Gaza, with Israel believing that at least 20 of them have died. Hamas officials have repeatedly emphasized that if capable, they will carry out similar attacks again. The parents of a woman killed in Hamas captivity stated, 'Shani' will be buried near us. Israel found the bodies of three hostages abducted by Hamas in Gaza. As military operations intensify in the north, the entry of international aid into Gaza has begun through a floating dock built by the U.S. The World Food Program warned that the continuation of Israeli attacks in Rafah would halt 'all humanitarian actions.' Israel stated that South Africa mocks genocide. Simultaneous operations in northern and southern Gaza; the Israeli army reported that 150 Hamas militants were killed in Jabalia.