The Future of Gaza and the West Bank – Security, Politics, and Public Sentiment With Aluf Benn and Madeleine Brand
In a recent America at a Crossroads conversation, Aluf Benn, editor-in-chief of Haaretz, joined Madeleine Brand to discuss Israel’s evolving military and political strategy in Gaza and the West Bank. Benn provided a detailed analysis of Israel’s potential annexation plans, the humanitarian impact of ongoing conflicts, and the strained relationship between Israeli and Arab citizens. The discussion also touched on Israel’s relationship with the United States and the fading prospects for a two-state solution.
The Potential Reoccupation and Annexation of Gaza
Amid ongoing military operations, calls within Israel to reoccupy and potentially annex parts of Gaza are growing louder. Benn explained that, following successful ground operations in Gaza, voices on the Israeli right are advocating for a permanent Israeli presence in the region.
“[I think it’s very likely… there’s no practical opposition to that either in Israel or outside,]” Benn remarked. He pointed out that Israel’s actions in Gaza—driving out populations and seizing strategic areas—have created momentum toward further control and possible annexation.
Benn explained that while Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated there are no official plans to resettle the region, the expansion of military control suggests a long-term occupation strategy, which could eventually lead to de facto annexation.
The Humanitarian and Strategic Impact of Israel’s Actions in Gaza
The humanitarian impact of Israel’s military actions in Gaza has been devastating, with entire neighborhoods left in ruins and hundreds of thousands displaced. Benn highlighted the strategic motivations behind Israel’s approach, emphasizing the goal of permanently neutralizing Hamas’s military capabilities.
“[There is a call in Israel to drive out the remaining Palestinians… and basically annex it into Israel,]” Benn explained. He described the growing sentiment among some factions in the Israeli government to clear northern Gaza of its remaining Palestinian population and establish new settlements in the region.
However, Benn cautioned that such a move would come with significant international backlash, particularly from human rights groups and the broader international community. He stressed that while Israel may achieve military objectives, the humanitarian consequences could further isolate the country diplomatically.
Increased Tensions and Military Activity in the West Bank
While the focus has been on Gaza, tensions in the West Bank have also escalated, with increased military activity and aggressive actions by Israeli settlers. Benn noted that the right-wing government sees this moment as an opportunity to expand settlements and push Palestinians out of key areas.
“[For the right-wing government, they see it as an opportunity… to drive out as many Palestinians as possible,]” Benn explained. He described how the government’s control over civilian authority in the West Bank has enabled the systematic expansion of settlements and the displacement of Palestinian communities.
Benn warned that these actions are not only increasing tensions in the region but are also undermining the possibility of a negotiated settlement in the future.
The Divide Between Israeli and Arab Citizens
The ongoing military actions have deepened divisions between Israeli Jews and Arab citizens, creating a polarized environment within the country. Benn explained that while the majority of Jewish Israelis support the military’s actions, the Israeli Arab community has largely opposed the war.
“[There is a very strong anti-war sentiment in Israeli Arab society… but it’s been quite marginalized,]” Benn noted. He highlighted that Arab citizens have faced increased marginalization since the October 7th Hamas attack, with limited platforms to voice their concerns.
This divide, Benn argued, reflects the broader polarization within Israeli society, where differing perspectives on security, citizenship, and national identity are becoming increasingly entrenched.
The Strained Relationship Between Israel and the U.S.
Benn also touched on Israel’s relationship with the Biden administration, describing how recent military actions in Lebanon and Gaza have strained ties between the two countries. He noted that while the U.S. has provided significant military support, there are clear limits to American tolerance for Israel’s actions.
“[The U.S. gave total support for the war in Lebanon and Yemen… but it did slow down Israeli air power in Gaza,]” Benn observed. He explained that Washington’s pressure led Israel to shift its tactics, focusing more on targeted operations and limiting large-scale airstrikes.
This dynamic, Benn argued, highlights the delicate balance Israel must maintain in its alliance with the United States, especially given the ongoing tensions in Lebanon and the threat of Iranian intervention.
The Fate of the Two-State Solution
Despite international efforts to revive peace talks, Benn offered a sobering assessment of the prospects for a two-state solution. He explained that the two-state framework remains politically unpopular within Israel, with both the right and center unwilling to advance the idea amid ongoing conflicts.
“[It seems as far away as ever… ignoring the Palestinians and locking them up was a delusion,]” Benn remarked. He pointed out that the political leadership in Israel remains focused on short-term security gains rather than long-term peace efforts, making a two-state solution increasingly unlikely.
However, Benn also emphasized that ignoring the Palestinian question is not a sustainable strategy, as ongoing conflicts continue to destabilize the region. He warned that without a clear path forward, tensions will only escalate, creating greater challenges for Israeli leadership and security.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.