Cost of Imposing Israeli Military Rule on Gaza Estimated at $6.8 Billion Annually

A confidential report, prepared by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority and published on Tuesday, has revealed that imposing military rule on the Gaza Strip would cost Israel substantially. Citing security institutions, the report estimates that the annual cost would surpass $6.8 billion.

Financial Burden of Renewed Israeli Control

Israeli security officials believe the estimated cost arises from multiple factors. Maintaining a large military presence in Gaza would require substantial funds. The report indicates the need for at least four army divisions, along with reserve force deployments, leading to an estimated annual expenditure of 20 billion shekels (approximately $5.4 billion) alone.

Beyond direct military costs, the report highlights the financial burden of a civil administration to manage non-military aspects of a resettlement regime. This operation is estimated to cost hundreds of millions of shekels annually, while basic civil services for the Palestinian population could add another 5 to 10 billion shekels annually ($1.3-2.7 billion).

Palestinian Displacement Advocated by Israeli Officials

In the context of ongoing debate over the future status of Gaza, Israel’s Minister of Finance, Bezalel Smotrich, has publicly pushed for a return to Israeli control of the Strip. Smotrich, leader of the right-wing “Religious Zionism” party, has even called for the establishment of Israeli settlements within Gaza and the displacement of its Palestinian population.

Similar sentiments were articulated by Itamar Ben Gvir, the Minister of National Security and leader of the far-right “Jewish Power” party. Both Smotrich and Ben Gvir appear buoyed by the current Israeli government’s approach, which has rejected ceasefire proposals and contributed to the dire humanitarian situation unfolding in Gaza.

“They scare me about the costs,” said Smotrich at a recent conference organized by the Israeli settlement council in the West Bank. “There is no bigger lie than that. It does not cost a lot of money. I was told that it would cost 5 billion dollars, but it would cost a few hundred million at most.”

World Officials Condemn Israeli Actions

The war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of 150,000 Palestinians, many of whom were women and children. Over 11,000 Palestinians remain missing, amidst the destruction, leaving the region in a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.

The situation is further complicated by evidence of possible war crimes.

The United Nations Security Council has called for an immediate ceasefire, while the International Court of Justice has ordered measures to prevent further harm to Palestinian civilians. These calls have been largely ignored by Israel.

What are the potential ⁤economic⁣ consequences‌ of Israel imposing military rule‌ on Gaza, and how might they impact the Israeli economy?

## Interview: The Cost of Control

**Host:** Joining us today to discuss⁢ the potential financial implications of Israel imposing military rule on Gaza is⁢ Professor David Levy, an expert on⁤ Israeli-Palestinian relations and economics. Professor Levy, thank ⁢you for being here.

**Professor Levy:** My pleasure.

**Host:** A‍ recent report by the Israeli Broadcasting Authority suggests the annual cost​ of such a move could‌ be ⁤astronomical, ​exceeding $6.8 billion. Can you break down some of the contributing factors to this ⁣staggering figure?

**Professor Levy:** Certainly. The report highlights the enormous cost of maintaining a significant military‍ presence in Gaza.​ We’re ⁢talking about deploying at least four army⁣ divisions,⁢ along with reserve forces,‌ adding up ⁣to an estimated $5.4 billion annually just in military expenses ‌ [[1]]. Don’t forget, this is on top of the already substantial defense budget Israel maintains.

**Host:** That’s a huge chunk of change just for the military presence. But ‌the report also mentions other expenses?

**Professor Levy:** Absolutely. Beyond the military, there’s the enormous ⁢task of​ establishing ​and running a ⁤civil administration. ‍This encompasses everything from managing day-to-day operations to providing basic services to the ‍Palestinian population in Gaza. The report estimates this could cost hundreds of millions‌ of shekels annually, adding further strain to the already burdened Israeli economy.

**Host:** That’s a lot of money for a measure that⁢ many see‌ as‍ highly controversial. Some argue​ that the financial burden outweighs any potential benefits. What are your thoughts ‌on that?

**Professor Levy:** It’s a complex issue with no easy answers.‌ While security concerns remain paramount for Israel, ‌the‌ economic costs ⁤of prolonged military control are undeniable. It’s​ crucial ‍to weigh these costs against potential long-term benefits and explore alternative solutions that prioritize both security⁤ and sustainability.

**Host:** Professor Levy, thank you for‌ sharing your‍ insights on this critical issue.

**Professor Levy:** ​Thank you for having ‌me.