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Gaza Resettlement Movement Gains Momentum

Right-Wing Support Grows, but the Majority of Israelis Remain Against the Idea

This story at a glance…

  1. A fringe movement to reoccupy Gaza is gaining momentum in Israel.

  2. Supporters say it would boost security after the 2023 Hamas attack.

  3. Most Israelis and international leaders oppose the idea.

  4. The debate exposes deep divisions over Gaza's future.

Gaza Resettlement Movement Gains Momentum

A once-fringe movement advocating the reoccupation of Gaza by Jewish settlers is gaining attention in Israel’s right-wing political circles. This shift follows the deadly Hamas attack in October 2023, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to renewed conflict. Proponents argue that reestablishing settlements could improve security, but the plan faces strong opposition from most Israelis and international leaders who see it as a potential spark for further violence.

Shifting Israeli Politics
The push to resettle Gaza is coming from a small faction within Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party. After the 2023 Hamas attack, some political leaders believe the 2005 withdrawal of Israeli forces and settlers allowed Gaza to become a stronghold for militant groups. Osher Shekalim, a Likud lawmaker, asserts that a permanent Israeli presence would prevent future attacks. Right-wing activists recently gathered near the Gaza border to discuss potential settlements, with some saying their views have shifted after the violence.

While these ideas are gaining visibility, they are not yet mainstream. Prime Minister Netanyahu has publicly opposed resettling Gaza, and polls show that the majority of Israelis agree with him. His government remains focused on the ongoing war and finding a long-term solution for Gaza’s governance, rather than resettlement.

Historical Context and Current Debate
Israel occupied Gaza from 1967 to 2005, when former Prime Minister Ariel Sharon withdrew settlers as part of a disengagement plan to reduce tensions with Palestinians. Following the withdrawal, Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, and the region has since seen recurring violence, with rockets regularly fired into Israel. Supporters of resettlement argue that Israel’s absence has allowed militant groups to thrive, but critics warn that reoccupation could reignite violent resistance and damage prospects for peace.

Netanyahu and other officials have resisted resettlement calls, citing the significant military resources required to protect settlers and the potential for escalating conflict. Internationally, reoccupying Gaza is widely viewed as illegal under international law, and U.S. officials have also voiced concerns. Critics warn that the move would undermine the two-state solution, which still holds support among many Israelis.

Divisions Within Israel
Despite widespread opposition, the idea of resettling Gaza has gained traction within parts of Netanyahu’s Likud party and among far-right settler groups. A recent conference held near the site of the October 2023 attacks brought together activists who view Gaza as part of Israel’s biblical lands. Many see the current conflict as an opportunity to reclaim the territory, although most Israelis remain skeptical of such plans.

Polls show that while support for resettling Gaza rose after the October attack, it has since declined, with only 36% of Jewish Israelis backing the idea—down from 43% in November 2023. Even among Likud voters, opinions are divided, with about half supporting resettlement efforts. Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has emphasized the need to find an alternative to Hamas for governing Gaza post-war, but a clear solution has yet to emerge.

The Path Ahead
As the war with Hamas continues, the future of Gaza remains uncertain. Right-wing activists and some Likud members push for resettlement, while most Israelis prefer to focus on long-term security solutions that avoid reigniting conflict. The debate underscores deep divisions within Israeli society over how to secure peace and safety for the nation.

For now, the idea of reoccupying Gaza remains on the fringes of Israeli politics, even as it gains more attention. Netanyahu’s fragile coalition, which includes far-right lawmakers, must balance these internal pressures with the ongoing conflict and international diplomacy.

Reflection
Isaiah 2:4 says, "He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples." As we reflect on the tensions in Gaza, let us remember that God’s justice and peace will prevail in the end. Our hope rests in His promise to bring an end to conflict and establish lasting peace.

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