Gaza Journalist: “If Netanyahu Leaves, Hamas Will Leave Too”

10:30

A Palestinian journalist from Gaza has suggested that a change in Israel’s political leadership could have far-reaching consequences for the future of the Palestinian territory, arguing that the continued rule of Benjamin Netanyahu and the presence of Hamas in Gaza are closely connected.

Speaking during an interview with an Israeli television channel, Sami Obeid expressed the view that many Gazans hope to see a different political leadership emerge in Israel, believing that such a development could open the door to a broader political transformation in the region.

Political Change in Israel Seen as a Turning Point

Obeid argued that the political future of Gaza cannot be separated from developments within Israel. In his assessment, Netanyahu’s departure could coincide with the end of Hamas's control over the Gaza Strip.

He also voiced support for Gadi Eisenkot as a potential head of the next Israeli government, expressing confidence that the former military chief could secure the mandate to form a governing coalition from President Isaac Herzog.

For Obeid, however, the central question goes beyond the identity of Israel’s next prime minister. He stressed that Gaza’s population is particularly concerned about the policies that a new government would adopt toward the territory and its residents.

Greater Political Integration for Arab Citizens

The journalist also addressed the position of Arab citizens within Israeli society, advocating for their stronger participation in the country's political and institutional structures.

He argued that Arab parties should have a place in government and called for broader integration of Arab citizens, including within the Israeli military.

According to Obeid, greater political inclusion and equal participation in state institutions could help address divisions and contribute to a more stable relationship between communities.

He went further by suggesting that if Gaza's residents held Israeli identity cards, the region might not have experienced the same cycle of wars.

Criticism of Hamas and Netanyahu’s Government

Reflecting on the October 7, 2023 attacks, Obeid described Hamas's actions as a major strategic mistake that brought devastating consequences for Gaza's civilian population.

While holding the organization responsible for its decisions, he also pointed to the policies pursued by Netanyahu's government as part of the wider context surrounding the conflict.

The journalist made his opposition to Hamas particularly clear, explicitly describing the organization as a terrorist movement and distancing himself from its actions.

Gaza's Population and the Aspiration for Peace

Obeid maintained that the overwhelming majority of Gaza's residents want to live in peace, drawing a distinction between the aspirations of ordinary civilians and the political and military choices made by armed organizations.

His comments reflect a perspective that places political change, institutional inclusion and the future governance of Gaza at the centre of any potential path toward stability.

Ultimately, his argument highlights the interconnected nature of Israeli domestic politics and the future of the Palestinian territory, while underscoring the importance of a political framework capable of responding to the expectations of civilians on both sides.