On Sunday, a duo of Democratic and Republican representatives seemed to rally behind Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s initiative regarding Gaza. Republican Rick Crawford from Arkansas and Democrat Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey appeared on “Fox News Sunday” with Shannon Bream, following a recent joint trip to Israel. Netanyahu’s administration is under scrutiny after the National Security Cabinet approved, on Friday, measures for a full takeover of Gaza by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
Crawford suggested that implementing such a strategy could enhance the safety of the hostages held by Hamas. He commented, “I think if the IDF takes the actions they are discussing, they are at a high risk of dying under current conditions. Essentially, Hamas is starving them. People talk about starvation in Gaza. It’s happening at the hands of Hamas, especially aimed at the hostages.”
Gottheimer shared a similar sentiment, stating that the Israeli approach seems appropriate—as long as any involvement by the IDF remains temporary. He contended that Hamas needs to be thoroughly defeated, but suggested that a new governing body must be introduced afterwards. “The Prime Minister made it very clear… this isn’t meant to be a long-term occupation or annexation. I think this is the right answer,” he expressed. He emphasized the need to “crush Hamas” and ensure humanitarian aid is delivered before transitioning to a different governance.
Netanyahu and his security cabinet met late into the night before announcing, on Friday, plans to seize control of Gaza entirely, eventually transitioning responsibility to allied Arab forces against Hamas. He conveyed, “The security cabinet has approved the Prime Minister’s proposal to defeat Hamas. The IDF is set to take control of Gaza city while providing humanitarian assistance to civilians situated outside of the combat areas.”
The cabinet adopted various principles, which include disarming Hamas, ensuring the retrieval of hostages—both living and deceased—and establishing a new framework for governance in Gaza.
This military occupation proposal emerges two decades after Israel pulled out of the enclave, forcibly removing approximately 8,600 Jewish residents. Shortly thereafter, Hamas obtained control through a violent coup following a legislative election victory.
