Former Israel Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff and political leader Gadi Eisenkot has said Hamas will no longer rule Gaza within 18 months if he enters the Prime Minister’s Office. In a public address, Eisenkot pledged to make dismantling Hamas’s military wing a government objective under his leadership.
Eisenkot outlined two possible routes to achieving the goal: implementing the framework proposed by US President Donald Trump and accepted by the Benjamin Netanyahu administration, or pursuing military and operational measures.
His remarks set out his proposed approach to Gaza’s future governance and Israel’s security objectives. The 18-month timeline represents Eisenkot’s stated commitment rather than a confirmed forecast of developments in the territory.
Eisenkot Outlines Plan to Remove Hamas From Power
Eisenkot said his government would prioritise ending Hamas’s control over the Gaza Strip. Drawing on his experience as a former IDF chief, he argued that Hamas remaining in power would represent a strategic setback for Israel.
“Hamas in power is an Israeli loss, a reality we must not accept,” Eisenkot said.
His proposed approach includes dismantling the group’s military capabilities and pursuing measures intended to prevent it from continuing to govern Gaza.
Trump Framework and Military Options
Eisenkot referred to the framework associated with Donald Trump and accepted by the Netanyahu administration as one possible route towards achieving his stated objective.
Alternatively, he said his government could pursue military and operational measures. His remarks did not establish which specific actions would be taken or how the proposed 18-month deadline would be implemented.
The statement places Gaza’s future administration and the status of Hamas at the centre of Eisenkot’s stated security priorities.
Gaza’s Future Remains a Major Regional Issue
Hamas’s role in Gaza remains a central issue in discussions about Israel’s security and the territory’s future. Any change in governance would also raise questions about security arrangements, civilian protection, humanitarian assistance and the administration of public services.
Eisenkot’s declaration outlines his political commitment, but the speech alone does not establish whether Hamas will lose control within the proposed timeframe.
For official information on Israel’s government and security policy, visit the Israeli government website.
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