Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer makes secret trip to Abu Dhabi to secure Emirati support for post-war plans.
Israel has reached out to the United Arab Emirates to play a crucial role in the Gaza Strip's post-war reconstruction. Israel Hayom has learned of a recent covert visit by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer – widely regarded as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's closest advisor – sought to engage Emirati support for Israel's "day after" strategy in the strip, potentially marking a significant shift in regional dynamics.
Dermer reportedly conveyed a crucial message to Emirati officials: the need for a physical Emirati presence in Gaza as an integral part of the post-war solution.
Building on this diplomatic groundwork, two senior Israeli defense officials are slated to visit the UAE Wednesday. Their objective is to further advance discussions on the post-war strategy with Emirati counterparts. Security sources reveal that these efforts center on promoting the previously disclosed "humanitarian bubbles" concept for Gaza's future.
This innovative approach envisions the establishment of humanitarian zones within Gaza, managed civilly by local Gazan entities. The plan calls for the UAE to play a pivotal role as a key financial backer in creating these zones. Beyond funding, the strategy encompasses infrastructure rehabilitation for Gaza's civilian population and the provision of a security framework for these "humanitarian bubbles." This security aspect is crucial, as the main challenge in transferring control to local Gazan entities lies in the fear of potential violent opposition from Hamas.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and other senior defense officials have publicly voiced opposition to imposing military rule in Gaza. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appears to have aligned with this stance, as Israel does not intend to maintain civilian control over the entire strip.
