YouTube’s Rulings on Gaza War Videos Spark Internal Backlash
WiredJun 22
Israel Orders Civilians to Evacuate Parts of Khan Younis
Image copyright: Abid Katib/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
The Israeli military ordered Palestinians to evacuate areas east of Khan Younis late on Monday after about 20 rockets were fired toward Israel, reportedly by Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).
According to Reuters, Israeli tanks began advancing into the area on Tuesday, even as officials at the European Gaza Hospital evacuated patients and families who had taken shelter in the facility.
The Spin
Pro-establishment narrative
The US is committed to supporting Israel as it winds down its operations in Gaza and works toward creating a brighter future in the strip. Nonetheless, Israel must formalize a workable post-war plan in Gaza so that its gains in the war are not squandered, and the humanitarian situation is effectively addressed. Indeed, Netanyahu needs to stop playing politics and work with Israel's allies to find an effective post-war strategy.
Pro-Israel narrative
Though the Biden administration has been working hard to pressure Israel and Netanyahu into allowing for a Palestinian terror state on its borders, this is simply not in the cards. Hamas can't be allowed to control Gaza, nor can the corrupt and terror-supporting Palestinian Authority take over. Indeed, the US keeps pushing for a big deal with Saudi Arabia while directly intervening in Israeli politics via Yair Lapid and Benny Gantz. None of these moves serves Israel's strategic interests.
Pro-Palestine narrative
These post-war plans are not feasible and are only meant to bide time as Netanyahu tries to maneuver. Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders have been quite clear that they have no desire to allow for a Palestinian state. Yet, the US would have one believe that it is Palestinians who are the primary obstacle to peace. Arab states have been clear about what it will take to make peace, yet Israel's intransigence continues to prevent any positive momentum. Israel must realize that the only way forward is to make peace and allow for the creation of a Palestinian state.