According to former Associated Press (AP) Jerusalem bureau chief Josef Federman, Israeli public opinion overwhelmingly backs removing Hamas but rejects long-term military occupation of Gaza, as intensified military operations take place and public discourse continues over Israel’s endgame in this conflict. His findings come amid increased Israeli military operations in Gaza Strip as well as growing public debate surrounding what path forward may lie for both parties in this conflict.
Federman stated in a recent media interview that, although Israelis may share a desire to dismantle Hamas following its deadly October 7 attacks, there is little appetite among them for reoccupying or administering Gaza for long-term management purposes.
“From conversations with Israelis across all political lines, it is apparent that most Israelis want Hamas out,” noted Federman. “However, there is widespread agreement against permanently reoccupying Gaza as the public perceives this would become a costly, indefinite quagmire without clear exit strategies.”
Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, dismantling settlements and turning control back over to the Palestinian Authority. Hamas later took control, sparking years of intermittent clashes with Israel – leading up to their surprise attack which reignited calls for Hamas’ removal but has also raised difficult questions about what happens next.
Federman noted that, although Israel’s military campaign enjoys widespread support, many remain concerned about post-war governance arrangements in Gaza City. According to him, there remains an uncertainty as regards who will oversee post-Hamas rule of Gaza City; no one wants Israeli soldiers manning its streets for years afterward.”
Recent polls reflect this dilemma, showing that Israelis overwhelmingly support Israel’s current military operation while opposing any direct control or reoccupation of Gaza by Israeli forces. Many experts suggest international involvement such as an interim administration supported by Arab states and international bodies could be the best possible option to govern Gaza in its entirety.
Israel has yet to articulate an official plan to dismantle Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stressed the necessity of disarming them militarily and politically, while still failing to outline an exact vision for Gaza’s future.
Federman’s remarks reflect an increasing divide between public support for military action and strategic consequences, and long-term implications. While Israelis desire security, they also remember the costs associated with long-term occupations; that’s why today’s discussion goes beyond defeating Hamas to address what comes afterward.
As the war continues, Israel faces an ongoing challenge of reconciling military objectives with political realities.