Netanyahu tells IDF to prepare for possibility of taking over distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has instructed the IDF to prepare for the possibility that it will be required to take over the distribution of humanitarian aid in Gaza from international welfare organizations, Channel 12 reports, Report informs referring to The Times of Israel.

At this stage, it says, Netanyahu has instructed the IDF to do the staff work to examine the logistics, operational mechanisms and manpower required.

In answer to a question at his press conference yesterday, Netanyahu said Israel was “very close” to dismantling Hamas militarily, “but we still need to deprive it of its capacity to rule. That means we need to find an alternative for all or a considerable part of the distribution of humanitarian aid. We are working on that now, and we will achieve that, because it is part of the ‘day after.'”

It cites an anonymous source familiar with the issue saying, “Soldiers should not be hurt, heaven forbid, distributing sacks of flour.”

The TV report notes that the idea has been raised in the past, but was dropped.

It says such a move would also carry implications for international law, since it would make Israel increasingly responsible for the Gaza Strip. Along with Netanyahu’s stated determination at his press conference to maintain Israeli military control over the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border, it would mean Israel was moving increasingly toward the military governance of Gaza.

The report also says the IDF has estimated that full military governance of Gaza would cost Israel some NIS 40 billion (almost $11 billion) annually.