Yoav Gallant, former Defense Minister and ex-commander of Flotilla 13, dropped a political bombshell last night when he warned that the humanitarian aid distribution plan in Gaza could lead to the establishment of military rule in the Strip – a move that he claims "will endanger IDF soldiers and harm state security".
In a pointed post on X, Gallant attacked the plan to employ private companies for food distribution under IDF protection. "This is whitewashing the beginning of military rule", Gallant wrote, "Everything depends on advance preparation of an alternative entity to replace the IDF in controlling the territory – without this, we're heading towards military rule".
Senior defense establishment officials responded that the plan is intended to prevent a humanitarian crisis and maintain stability in the Strip. "There is no intention to establish military rule", said a senior official, "This is a temporary response to an emergency situation".
However, Gallant, who commanded numerous operations in Gaza during his military service, warns that reality on the ground will dictate different dynamics. "Private companies will distribute the aid, the IDF will protect these companies, and we'll all pay the price", he emphasized.
"Military rule in Gaza is not part of the war's objectives", Gallant added, "but rather a dangerous and irresponsible political act". According to him, deploying IDF forces to secure humanitarian activities will come at the expense of "more important security missions" and endanger the soldiers.
Gallant's sharp criticism comes at a sensitive time, as the Political-Security Cabinet is expected to discuss the detailed aid distribution plan in the coming days. Political sources assessed that the former Defense Minister's statements could influence the discussions and reignite questions regarding long-term military involvement in Gaza.
Historical experience demonstrates the risks in establishing military control mechanisms in populated areas. Once the IDF takes responsibility for ongoing security, it will be extremely difficult to disengage from this commitment without causing chaos.
As of today, tensions on the ground continue, and the question of how to provide humanitarian aid without being drawn into full military control remains unanswered. Gallant's words emphasize the complex dilemma facing Israel: how to maintain humanitarian stability without sinking into the quagmire of long-term military rule.
At this hour, tension in the arena continues to exist, and the issue of providing humanitarian aid without deteriorating into complete military control remains unsolved. Gallant's warnings cast a sharp light on the complex maze facing Israel: how to maintain a stable humanitarian aid system without drowning in the depths of long-term military rule.
Photo: X network, Yoav Gallant
