Former Israeli PM Emphasizes Need To Beat Hamas Before Two-State Solution
Ehud Barak Stresses the Need for New Governance in Palestine
Overt Operator
October 30, 2023
Former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak has emphasized the need for Israel to defeat Hamas before moving forward with the implementation of a two-state solution.
In an interview with The West Block's Mercedes Stephenson, Barak expressed his belief that Israel is on the right side of history and that a two-state solution is the ultimate vision for the region. However, he stressed that this can only be achieved after Hamas, a designated terrorist entity, is replaced.
Barak, who also served as the Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), acknowledged the challenges that an Israeli ground offensive in Gaza would face. He explained that the objective should be a two-state solution, which is supported by the United States and neighboring countries. However, he emphasized the need to eliminate Hamas' military capabilities before transitioning control to another governing body.
While the Palestinian Authority currently governs the West Bank, Barak expressed doubts about its ability to govern in Gaza as well. He suggested that other countries could potentially play a role in governing Gaza once Hamas is defeated.
The interview took place before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the beginning of the "second stage" of the conflict against Hamas. This escalation comes amid ongoing tensions and violence between Israel and Hamas, with both sides experiencing casualties and significant damage.
Barak's perspective highlights the complexity of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges involved in finding a long-term solution. The two-state solution has been a longstanding diplomatic proposal, aiming to establish an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. However, the presence of Hamas, a group dedicated to the destruction of Israel, poses significant obstacles to achieving this goal.
As the conflict continues, international attention remains focused on the situation in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The outcome of the current conflict will undoubtedly have implications for the future of the region and efforts to reach a peaceful resolution.
In the meantime, the Israeli government faces the immediate task of neutralizing Hamas' military capabilities while considering the long-term governance of Gaza. The ultimate goal of a two-state solution remains on the horizon, but the path towards its realization is fraught with challenges that must be addressed.