Netanyahu says Israel didn’t agree to US-backed Gaza plan as far-right pressure grows

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu denied on Wednesday that Israel had agreed to a U.S.-backed plan for Gaza, despite having received assurances that an Israeli withdrawal from the region would occur only after Hamas disarmed. In a video message shared on his social media platforms late Tuesday, Netanyahu stated that the group of advisors working under U.S. President Donald Trump believed they could achieve the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of Gaza. He emphasized that Israel was still evaluating the proposal, adding that while they had received a draft version, they had not accepted it and had submitted their own feedback. The prime minister reportedly met earlier in the week with the U.S.-backed Board of Peace, a group of American officials and diplomats tasked with brokering a ceasefire agreement. During this meeting, Netanyahu claimed he was assured that the Israeli military would remain in its current positions in Gaza until Hamas had fully disarmed. However, tensions have risen within Netanyahu's government over the proposed plan, particularly among members of his right-wing coalition. Two prominent far-right ministers within the coalition have called for a fresh vote on the proposal, arguing that it does not align with the initial discussions held before the plan was formalized. These ministers, who hold influential positions in Israel’s security cabinet, expressed concerns that the agreement might compromise national security interests and fail to adequately address the threat posed by Hamas. Despite these internal objections, Israel’s security cabinet had previously approved the proposal, which includes provisions for the deployment of international peacekeeping forces in the Gaza Strip. The plan aims to establish a temporary ceasefire and create conditions for humanitarian aid delivery, while ensuring the disarmament of Hamas. However, the recent pushback from hardline elements within the government suggests that implementing the plan may face significant challenges. The situation highlights the complex dynamics within Netanyahu’s administration, where balancing domestic political pressures with international diplomatic efforts proves increasingly difficult. With the ongoing conflict in Gaza showing no signs of abating, the Israeli leadership faces mounting pressure to find a resolution that satisfies both its strategic objectives and the demands of its coalition partners. As negotiations continue, the role of the U.S.-backed Board of Peace remains crucial in mediating between Israeli authorities and Palestinian factions. Their involvement underscores the broader geopolitical implications of the crisis, with regional stability hinging on the success of such diplomatic initiatives. Meanwhile, the Israeli public awaits further developments as the government navigates through these turbulent times.