The "Times of Israel" reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office plans to remain in the Gaza Strip for about 10 years. According to the Israeli newspaper, estimates suggest that "the first phase of the war, eliminating Hamas, will take one or two years, and another eight years for a replacement government to stabilize, if that even happens at all."
It explained that "during this period, Israel will need to maintain its ongoing presence in Gaza to prevent Hamas from regaining control," adding, "There will always be terrorists in Gaza, and the state will have to continue fighting them." Regarding what Gaza will look like in five or ten years, the newspaper stated, "It will look just like the West Bank does now. Heavy weapons will be dismantled and placed under partially hostile Palestinian control, reminiscent of the Palestinian Authority, with endless Israeli strikes and operations against terrorist centers deep in the enclave. Additionally, raids like those conducted by the Israeli army in Nablus and Jenin, the destruction of terrorists' homes (if rebuilt by that time), and nighttime arrests will continue in Khan Yunis and Shuja'iyya."
The report mentioned that "Netanyahu and his close associates do not expect an Israeli military rule in Gaza. However, Israel will control Gaza from a distance," noting that "former Fatah leader in Gaza, Mohammed Dahlan, will not be allowed to return to the territory." One of the Prime Minister's aides stated, "He will not set foot there."
The newspaper highlighted that "assuming the war continues for 10 years, the 2028 elections in the United States will also take place amidst the fighting in Gaza," pointing out that "currently, the Prime Minister's office is preparing for, and even hoping for, a change in the government in the United States," indicating that "Netanyahu is convinced that no one has the capability to manage the country's affairs or the war like he does."
