One of the fundamental principles of science is "horror vacui" – nature abhors a vacuum. Essentially, this idea states that if there is an empty space, nature will fill it; no void remains unfilled.

Sadly, we’ve witnessed this principle in action in Gaza over recent days, as IDF troops have been forced to return to areas like Zeitoun and Jabaliya that they had previously cleared out. This is because in the vacuum left behind after the fighting, Hamas has moved back in.

This week, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant appeared on national television, urging Prime Minister Netanyahu to implement a post-operation plan for governing the Gazan neighborhoods the IDF had cleared. Gallant made it clear that by not doing so, Israel inadvertently leaves a vacuum that Hamas could exploit, jeopardizing Israel's national security.

Netanyahu was angered by being publicly called out, especially by someone within his own party. However, after the accidental death of five soldiers in Gaza, the Israeli public realizes the lack of a post-operation plan to fill the vacuum has real consequences, not only for Gazans but for Israelis themselves.

On today's episode of Inside Israel, we'll discuss the vacuum in Gaza, including the reasons why it has not been addressed yet, and potential options for filling it moving forward. I'll also provide updates on the latest news coming out of Israel and answer any questions you may have.

You can watch a video recording of this podcast at www.joelchasnoff.com/podcast. This is also where you can sign up to receive links for the live weekly Inside Israel webinar.

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