Netanyahu's Plan for Ending Hamas War

In the wake of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces significant challenges in realizing his postwar objectives. Drawing parallels to past military engagements, he envisions a future where Gaza is governed by a civilian administration of Palestinians who do not threaten Israel. This vision includes the demilitarization and deradicalization of Gaza, supported by regional partners. However, the complexities of regional politics, particularly with conservative Gulf monarchies, complicate these aspirations. Despite historical tensions, these Gulf states recognize a shared interest in countering threats from various factions, including the Muslim Brotherhood and Shiite alliances. The Biden administration, still navigating the fallout from President Biden's controversial remarks about Saudi Arabia, is attempting to facilitate cooperation. However, the demands from Gulf nations for support have proven to be higher than what Israel is prepared to concede, creating a stalemate in negotiations. Compounding Netanyahu's difficulties is the stance of Vice President Kamala Harris, who has openly criticized Israel's military actions and expressed concern for Palestinian casualties. Her potential victory in the upcoming election could lead to a shift in U.S. foreign policy, reminiscent of the Obama administration's approach during the 2014 conflict, which favored a deal more beneficial to Hamas. This scenario raises the stakes for Netanyahu, who is urging for expedited support to achieve his military objectives. As the situation evolves, the interplay between U.S. policy, regional alliances, and the ongoing conflict will be crucial in determining the future of Gaza and Israel's security strategy.