Israel Reportedly Trying to Create Hamas-Free ‘Bubble’ Zones in Gaza
In a bold and complex endeavor, Israel is reportedly planning to establish "humanitarian enclaves" in northern Gaza, aimed at creating areas free from Hamas influence. This pilot initiative is set to be implemented in two cities, Beit Hanoun and Beit Lahia, and, if successful, could serve as a model for wider application across the Gaza Strip. The concept involves carving out Hamas-free “bubbles” where local Palestinians, unaffiliated with Hamas, would gradually take over responsibilities for aid distribution and civil governance. Initially, Israeli forces would maintain security within these zones, ensuring a stable transition. The long-term goal is for these areas to be self-sustained by local governance, providing a foundation for a post-Hamas Gaza. The strategy behind these humanitarian enclaves aligns with a broader post-war plan to transfer some level of control over Gaza to the Palestinian Authority (PA) and moderate Arab states. This approach is seen as a potentia