Israel has not yet signed or formally endorsed the roadmap for the next stage of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan. This situation arises amid increasing dissent within the Israeli security cabinet, alongside concerns that Hamas might exploit the process to limit Israel’s military operations, according to reports.
Concerns Raised by Shin Bet Director
David Zini, the Director of Israel’s Shin Bet security service, cautioned officials that Hamas interprets the proposed demilitarization plan as a strategic maneuver, allowing them to stall and limit Israel’s military options rather than genuinely relinquishing their military capacity. Zini emphasized that the plan could provide Hamas with a diplomatic advantage, akin to achieving politically what it couldn’t accomplish through military means.
Zini pointed out that Hamas aims to prolong the negotiations, awaiting the outcome of Israel’s upcoming elections. There is concern that this delay could prevent Israel from engaging in military operations during this critical period. He indicated that Hamas perceives any potential agreement as a means to “trap Israel,” thereby restricting its military actions in Gaza in the near future.
Objections to Preparatory Period
An immediate point of contention revolves around a suggested 14-day preparatory period prior to the implementation of the next phase of the plan. Israeli officials have expressed considerable opposition to entering this stage, as it would entail restrictions on military actions, including targeted operations against Hamas leaders.
Reports from various sources, including Walla, highlight that the Israeli government has not formally approved the Board of Peace’s demilitarization roadmap and has raised significant objections to the arrangement. This disagreement underscores the ongoing divergence between Israeli and U.S. perspectives on the proper initiation of the next phase.
Israeli leaders are advocating for a thorough and verifiable demilitarization of Gaza, insisting that Hamas must disarm before the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) make further withdrawals. Conversely, the Trump administration’s plan advocates for a phased approach that would integrate Hamas disarmament with the establishment of a Palestinian technocratic government, deployment of an international stabilization force, and further Israeli withdrawals.
Status of the Multinational Force
The situation surrounding the proposed international force remains ambiguous. Reports indicate that a separate document regulating the force’s deployment has not yet been signed, primarily due to Israeli objections. Furthermore, Israel has not granted formal approval for the multinational team’s entry under the new proposed arrangements.
Nevertheless, it has been reported that under pressure from American officials, the Israeli government has authorized the entry of approximately 200 members of a multinational force. Reports suggest that Israeli operations in Gaza may have recently ceased, while preparations for the international force appear to progress outside Israel. For instance, Uganda’s parliament has voted to approve sending troops to Gaza if necessary as part of the international effort.
As efforts continue, the Israeli cabinet’s decisions will be crucial in determining the future of military operations and negotiations in the region. The differences in approach between Israel and the U.S. underline the complexities of the situation and the challenges ahead.