Israeli defense minister announces unilateral plans for post-war Gaza, Palestinians to run civilian affairs

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant says Palestinians will be responsible for running civilian affairs in the Gaza Strip after the current fighting ends.

Gallant on Thursday presented a plan on how to handle the Gaza Strip after the ongoing war with Hamas is over.

He said the Islamic group would no longer control the enclave and Israel would not govern Gaza’s civilians.

Gallant said the Israeli military would retain its operational freedom of action in Gaza to ensure there would be no threats against Israel. He also said Israel would inspect goods entering the Gaza Strip.

The minister also outlined plans for the next phase of the military operation.

He said a new combat approach in the northern region of Gaza will include raids and the destruction of tunnels.

Gallant also said operational efforts in the southern region will focus on eliminating the Hamas leadership and enabling the return of the hostages. He added that these efforts will continue for as long as is deemed necessary.

The unilateral announcement of the plans for the administration of Gaza is expected to draw a backlash from Palestinians.