Prof. Kobi Michael: Israel should make it clear that it will only accept a plan for Gaza’s reconstruction after Hamas is no longer in power. Until then, there is no plan or idea that could succeed in Gaza with Hamas remaining as the sovereign power. When we look at the Arab League summit’s statement last week, we see empty words. Hamas isn’t mentioned once, but Israel is severely condemned. They talk about Egypt’s plan for Gaza’s reconstruction without addressing Hamas’s role. They also provide platforms that could allow Hamas to be part of Gaza’s future and the broader Palestinian system by calling for reforms to the PLO and Palestinian Authority, which includes all Palestinian factions—meaning Hamas too.
The interview took place on ILTV on March 13, 2025.