Jordan Daily – In a bid to replace the civilian leadership in Gaza amid concerns of Hamas regaining influence, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has suggested Majed Faraj, the head of the Palestinian Authority’s intelligence apparatus, as a potential candidate for temporary management of the Gaza Strip, according to a report by Israel’s public broadcaster Kan.
Faraj, 61, a close associate of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and a potential successor, has strong ties with Israel’s defense establishment. His responsibilities include coordinating with Israel’s Shin Bet security agency, the American CIA, and other international intelligence organizations.
The report indicates that there is a growing fear of Hamas taking control of the humanitarian aid entering Gaza, despite Israeli efforts to dismantle the organization. This has led to an urgent need to replace Hamas in Gaza’s civilian administration, with a moderate member of the Palestinian Authority being the most immediate option.
Opposition leader Yair Lapid, in an interview with Kan, stated that it was natural to consider Faraj, given his extensive work against Hamas within the PA. He added that there were no obstacles to working with the PA in the civilian apparatus, as they already do so. However, he emphasized that Israel’s security would be the deciding factor in the government’s decision to work with the PA.
Despite this, Lapid concluded that Israel should ensure its own security and not rely on the PA in the war on “terror”.
