He also referred to the US naval dock concerning Gaza: "The central question is whether they will build a quay, bring in merchandise. The moment goods arrive on shore – who is in charge of their intake? Who is responsible for distributing the commodities in an organized manner? Ultimately, the question is, when the equipment comes, who receives it? Who distributes it to the residents? There are two eventualities, both polar opposites of each other, that I believe the absolute majority of Israelis, including in the Israeli government, think must never come to pass: Hamas continues to rule; allow a form of a civil administration to return to be in charge of the Gaza Strip. Either outcome has enormous implications. I cannot envision a situation where Israel controls civil affairs in Gaza. Just think about the rehabilitation of Gaza. It will cost billions of dollars. I do not see Israel being in charge of that, and I hope not."
To conclude, Lotan clarified "I do not see a situation where we can ultimately defeat Hamas without entering, occupying, and cleansing Rafah. Seems impossible to me."