As the fragile ceasefire in Gaza holds, a new proposal is emerging: splitting the Gaza Strip into two areas. One side would remain under Hamas rule, while the other would showcase life without the terror group’s influence.
Arab nations have indicated they won’t provide funding for reconstruction as long as Hamas is in power. In response, U.S. and Israeli officials are considering a plan to rebuild in the parts of Gaza still controlled by Israel. This initiative focuses on what is referred to as the “yellow line.” Experts say the goal is to create a living example of peace and recovery that might encourage change in the Hamas-controlled areas.
The parts of Gaza under Israeli control, behind the yellow line, make up about 58% of the Strip. This includes southern Rafah, significant portions of Khan Younis, and neighborhoods in the north like Beit Lahia and Shujaiyya. Despite the presence of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Hamas remains active near the front lines.
John Spencer, head of the Urban Warfare Institute, described the idea of dividing Gaza as both a practical and psychological test. He believes it could show Gazans what life could be like without Hamas. Spencer referred to this strategy as a “Disneyland” approach, inspired by U.S. counterinsurgency methods in Iraq, where areas are cleared of threats and rebuilt to demonstrate hope and progress.
Spencer emphasized that the aim is not just to eliminate Hamas but to create a better living standard for Gazans. “You build a little piece of goodness, a little Disneyland, to show everybody what’s possible,” he said.
While there are signs of recovery on one side of the line, daily life remains challenging in Hamas-controlled Gaza. One resident expressed fear and concern about the ongoing power of Hamas despite any ceasefire, saying they feel trapped and unsettled.
Many Gazans have reported that although food is available and prices are decreasing, destruction is still widespread. Despite these challenges, some believe that rebuilding a new portion of Gaza could represent a new beginning.
Hussam al-Astal, an anti-Hamas militia leader, stated that their goal isn’t to gain power but to create a better future for the people of Gaza. He called for international support to protect them from Hamas’s actions.
Israel appears to be offering some limited backing to various anti-Hamas groups. Experts suggest there could be broader efforts to push Hamas out of the region through local forces supported by Israeli actions.
The plan to create two distinct realities in Gaza aligns with previous strategic intentions outlined by the Trump administration. It suggests that reconstruction can begin in areas where Hamas cannot operate while continuing efforts to diminish its presence elsewhere.
Overall, rebuilding Gaza will require a comprehensive approach: creating functioning local governance and systems that support sustainable growth, crucial for the future of Gazans.
