Tel aviv: Israeli opposition leaders have vocally condemned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government for its controversial plan to allocate 15 billion shekels, approximately $4 billion, to construct a so-called 'humanitarian city' in Rafah, Gaza. The proposal has sparked significant debate and criticism within Israeli political circles.
According to Anadolu Agency, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced plans to relocate all Palestinians to this new 'humanitarian city' on the ruins of Rafah in southern Gaza. He indicated that the population would be contained within this zone before being allowed to emigrate from Gaza to other countries. Israeli officials estimate the cost of the proposed project to be between $2.7 billion and $4 billion, with Israel bearing nearly the entire financial burden if the plan moves forward.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid, expressing his disapproval on social media platform X, criticized Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's involvement in the Rafah project. Lapid argued that the substantial funds allocated for the humanitarian city could have been better spent on domestic priorities such as reducing class sizes, lowering fuel and transportation costs, and subsidizing childcare. He accused Netanyahu of enabling far-right ministers to pursue extreme agendas, thereby neglecting the needs of the middle class.
Yair Golan, head of the Democrats Party, labeled the Rafah tent city initiative a 'messianic delusion,' criticizing the government's preference for such projects over essential domestic needs like rebuilding war-damaged infrastructure. He accused the government of abandoning its citizens and called for a change in leadership.
Benny Gantz, leader of the National Unity Party and former war cabinet minister, echoed these sentiments, accusing the government of prioritizing political survival over addressing pressing issues like crime. He advocated for a 'national consensus government' to replace what he termed as extremist ministers focused on public relations and political immunity.
Avigdor Lieberman, former Defense Minister and leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu Party, also denounced the plan. He argued that the funds should be invested in soldiers and civilians rather than being directed towards what he described as a 'humanitarian' complex in Gaza. Lieberman called for new leadership to address the country's challenges more effectively.
The Israeli army's ongoing offensive in Gaza since October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, with nearly 58,000 Palestinians killed, most of whom are women and children. The military campaign has led to widespread destruction, food shortages, and disease outbreaks in the enclave. International bodies have taken note, with the International Criminal Court issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant for alleged war crimes, and Israel facing genocide allegations at the International Court of Justice.