Maj.-Gen. (res.) Gadi Shamni, a former commander of the Gaza Division and the Central Region Command, emphasized on Sunday that "if we focus solely on the surface events, we won't be able to disrupt Hamas's military capabilities. I believe that as a nation, we lack a coherent strategy for the post-conflict period." He shared his insights on Sunday during an interview on 103FM regarding the country's approach to the aftermath of the Hamas massacre.
Shamni explained that "The IDF is still in Gaza City, which comprises multi-story buildings and densely populated areas. There is still a considerable amount of work to be done within the city. Ultimately, this will be a challenging battle; it could last for months if we aim to achieve the objectives set for the IDF. Our intention is not to pursue every terrorist to the last man, but rather to establish effective control over the territory."
Approximately 30% of soldiers support Fatah
He added, "Without a doubt, we need a solid post-conflict strategy for the entire Gaza Strip, which includes a comprehensive blockade of Gaza. This means we need to maintain control over the Philadelphi Corridor and halt all weapons and terrorist movements. The current situation with the Palestinian Authority is undoubtedly problematic. In Gaza, approximately 30% of Palestinians support Fatah. Changing this will take time.
"The reconstruction of Gaza cannot commence until these conditions are met. This means that Gaza residents might have to reside in tents for a period of two or three years."
Regarding the Nation-State Law, he stated, "We must repeal the misguided, detrimental, and unnecessary law. We simply need to revoke this law, as addressing amendments is currently impractical due to the ongoing state of war. During my time visiting the Druze officer course, I witnessed people who were just as much citizens as anyone else. We must abolish this absurdity.
"It's hardly worth mentioning in contrast to what it should be; the haredim (ultra-Orthodox) must be drafted into the IDF, without exception," he asserted, referring to the increased enlistment rate of the haredi population since the Gulf War. "I respect those who have volunteered and commend their spirit, since I understand it's not an easy decision [which they made]."
Concerning the northern front, the former Central Command chief said, "In the North, we are at risk of falling into the same trap as we did in the South. [Hassan] Nasrallah [secretary-general of Hezbollah] is planning to alter the landscape in the North for the upcoming war, which I believe will continue even after the Gaza war concludes. From a psychological standpoint, we unquestionably need to prepare for this scenario; otherwise, the residents of the North won't be able to return to their homes."