Meir Goldminz Warns Third-Party Rule in Gaza Will Undermine Israel's Security Freedom
Meir Goldminz cautions that transferring control of Gaza to a third party or an international peace council will not stop terrorism but will instead turn every Israeli military action into a political crisis with the governing entity, severely limiting Israel's security freedom of action. Since the horrific October 7 massacre during Sukkot, which shattered the Oslo Accords and the disengagement agreements, various proposals have emerged regarding Gaza's governance after the war. However, the Israeli government has never declared an intention to reestablish Israeli sovereignty or settlements in Gaza, despite some civil organizations and politicians advocating for it. Prime Minister Netanyahu has consistently stated that this is not his policy and is instead seeking a third party to govern Gaza, with Egypt being the most discussed candidate. Currently, there is also a proposal to establish an international peace council to rule Gaza.
Goldminz describes these ideas as political blindness, warning that terrorism will persist due to the large population in Gaza that views Israel's existence as a catastrophe. If a third party or international council governs Gaza, Israeli military responses to terrorism will inevitably target that authority, damaging its army, sovereignty, and dignity. For example, if Egypt governs Gaza, Israeli retaliation against terror attacks could jeopardize the peace treaty with Egypt. Similarly, if an international peace council rules Gaza, fighting terrorism would mean conflict with that council and many countries worldwide, a price Israel may not be willing to pay.
He emphasizes that third-party governance would drastically restrict Israel's ability to respond to terror attacks, as every action would carry significant international political consequences, effectively neutering the Israel Defense Forces more than Hamas rule does. Goldminz concludes by urging a return to the fundamental principle that the Land of Israel belongs to the Jewish people, citing the prophet Jeremiah to stress the importance of embracing this destiny. He warns that all other attempts to avoid this divine mandate have failed and that the best political and security solution for Gaza is the one ordained by God: choosing life and sovereignty for Israel in the land.
