Israeli Defense Minister Yisroel Katz has called for the development of a strategy to defeat Hamas if an agreement for the return of hostages is not reached before Donald Trump assumes office. In an interview with Arutz Sheva, former Deputy Chief of Staff Major General (Res.) Uzi Dayan discussed how this goal could be achieved after over a year of conflict.

Dayan explained that Katz’s demand, as a key figure in the security establishment, essentially calls for a military victory, which is traditionally the responsibility of the army. He went on to suggest that Israel should persist with targeted assassinations of Hamas leaders, as the organization continues to replace its top figures. Rather than focusing on raids and limited strikes, Dayan emphasized the need to take full control of the Gaza Strip.

Additionally, Dayan stressed the importance of establishing a civilian administration, rather than relying solely on military rule. He argued that Israel must manage the essential services—such as medicine, water, electricity, and fuel—to weaken Hamas and prevent it from regrouping. Dayan believes that these actions will bring Israel closer to securing a deal for the release of the hostages.

When it comes to releasing the hostages, Dayan is confident that a deal will eventually be reached, telling Arutz Sheva, “I do not see how this can happen in any other way.” He warned, however, that any agreement must involve ensuring the return of all hostages, which would require Israel to control civilian elements in Gaza. Once these elements are under Israeli control, Dayan believes Israel will be able to offer significant concessions to secure the hostages’ release. He questioned whether Israel is truly close to this point.

Regarding Trump’s impending return to the White House, Dayan pointed out that the former president is exerting pressure on Israel to reach a deal, as his influence over Hamas, particularly through Qatar, is limited. “The main pressure is on us because he wants us to agree to a lot in exchange for no one,” Dayan said, urging caution in the negotiations. He warned against agreeing to a military ceasefire and withdrawing from Gaza without securing the return of all hostages.

Dayan went on to explain that Trump’s emissary has already visited Israel, seeking a ceasefire by the time the president takes office. However, Dayan noted that the emissary has not placed any significant pressure on Hamas, who have leverage through Qatar. He stressed that it is crucial for the Trump administration to take a stronger stance in the battle against Iran.

Turning back to Gaza, Dayan argued that Israel must maintain its military focus and take full control of the region, even if the terms of any agreements are unfavorable. He reiterated the importance of civilian oversight over Gaza’s essential resources, which would cripple Hamas’s operations and bring Israel closer to achieving its goal of securing the hostages. When asked about the duration of Israel’s civilian control over Gaza, Dayan stated, “for as long as necessary.”

Addressing the future of Gaza, Dayan remarked that, while opinions may differ on whether a multinational force should be involved, whoever assumes control of Gaza must do so with the support of the IDF, not organizations like UNRWA or the Palestinian Authority. “Only from the IDF,” Dayan emphasized. He also advocated for moving away from the current strategy of controlling Gaza through limited raids and border enforcement, stressing that Israel needs to fully conquer Gaza to ensure long-term stability.

{Matzav.com Israel}