Minister Regev Sparks Political Storm Over Gaza Reconstruction: "A Resuscitation Plan for Terror"
This morning, Minister of Transport and Security Cabinet member Miri Regev stated in an interview with Galei Tzahal that Gaza's reconstruction could begin in any demilitarized zone. The "Otef Israel" forum and the "Tzav 9" movement have launched a sharp attack, accusing the Prime Minister and Defense Minister of authorizing infrastructure work in eastern Rafah without public oversight.
The "Otef Israel" forum and the "Tzav 9" movement are demanding clarifications from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz following remarks by Minister of Transport and Security Cabinet member Miri Regev, who expressed support for the reconstruction of Gaza on Sunday morning.
In an interview with Galei Tzahal, Miri Regev stated:
"If they want Gaza to be rehabilitated, it is possible to start the process in any demilitarized zone."
These remarks follow reports that Benjamin Netanyahu and Israel Katz have, for the first time, authorized the commencement of rehabilitation and infrastructure works in eastern Rafah—a decision that right-wing groups claim was made "under the radar" without an official announcement.
In a joint statement, the "Otef Israel" forum and the "Tzav 9" movement criticized the remarks:
"The Prime Minister and the Defense Minister are allowing the rehabilitation of Gaza under the eyes of the cabinet members. There is no demilitarized zone that is not held by our soldiers. The moment the IDF withdraws, Hamas will return to a rehabilitated area with weapons turned against us. This is not a rehabilitation plan—this is a resuscitation plan for terror. The dismantling of Hamas terrorists and full demilitarization are a critical obligation before starting talk about rehabilitation."
