Foreign Minister Eli Cohen of Israel has recently indicated potential territorial alterations to Gaza post-conflict, raising speculations about Israel’s future intentions in the region.
Quick Facts
- Official Statement: Eli Cohen, the Israeli Foreign Minister, has confirmed on Israeli Army Radio that not only is the goal to eliminate Hamas, but there’s also a plan to reduce Gaza’s size.
- Impending Annexation?: This announcement gives a clear hint towards Israel’s potential moves to annex parts of Gaza, a speculation that many analysts had previously considered.
- Buffer Zone Theory: The Times of Israel theorized that Israel might be considering the creation of a buffer zone within Gaza, especially after the recent attacks on Israeli border villages by Hamas.
Foreign Minister Eli Cohen’s statements have added a new dimension to the ongoing conflict’s discourse. Beyond the aim of the complete destruction of Hamas, he revealed intentions to reduce the territorial expanse of Gaza. Such a revelation provides the most transparent hint that Israel might be contemplating annexation of certain parts of Gaza. Analysts and experts had previously speculated about such a move, but Cohen’s pronouncement has given these theories newfound credibility.
While Israeli officials had, in the past, hinted at changes to Gaza, they had never explicitly mentioned any territorial modifications. The Times of Israel, interpreting Cohen’s recent remarks, postulates the establishment of a buffer zone within Gaza. This speculation arises from the backdrop of the devastating attack on Israeli border villages by Hamas earlier in the month. Such a buffer zone might serve as a defensive measure, minimizing the potential for future cross-border attacks.
However, any move to annex parts of Gaza or the establishment of a buffer zone will likely be met with significant resistance. Such actions are bound to deepen the resentment within the Palestinian community and the broader Arab world. It might also impede ongoing peace discussions. Notably, President Joe Biden has already expressed his concerns over any potential occupation of Gaza, labeling it a “considerable mistake.”
| For Further Reading | Hamas: Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist organization. Founded in 1987, it has been labeled as a terrorist organization by several countries and international organizations, including Israel, the U.S., and the EU. The group has had a significant influence on the politics of the Gaza Strip and has been involved in several conflicts with Israel. For a detailed history and overview, refer to the Wikipedia article. |
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Q&A
What did Foreign Minister Eli Cohen specifically say about Gaza’s future?
Eli Cohen stated that post-conflict, not only will Hamas be eliminated, but Gaza’s territorial size will also be reduced.
What is the significance of creating a buffer zone in Gaza?
A buffer zone could serve as a defensive measure to protect Israeli border villages, especially in the wake of recent attacks by Hamas.
How has President Joe Biden reacted to these developments?
President Biden has cautioned against any potential occupation of Gaza, terming it a “big mistake.”
Original Article Source: Washington Examiner