Netanyahu Rejects Trump Gaza Plan Amid Internal Political Pressure

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has officially rejected the 15 point Board of Peace plan proposed by Donald Trump, stating that the Israeli Defense Forces will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed of both heavy and light weapons. Netanyahu further declared that no Palestinian state will be established in Gaza or the West Bank while he remains prime minister. These statements were met with praise from right wing government members, including Betzalel Smotrich, who welcomed the refusal to withdraw or begin reconstruction before the total dissolution of Hamas.

Despite the public rejection, reports indicate a more complex situation on the ground. The Jerusalem Post reported that Netanyahu previously told Jared Kushner he was willing to give the plan a chance, with the military moving toward the Yellow Line. Additionally, military radio reports suggest the political echelon had already approved reconstruction work in a pilot zone in Rafah, known as Green Rafah, which is funded primarily by the United Arab Emirates. This area is reportedly intended to house opponents of Hamas and is already seeing the presence of U.S. soldiers and facilities for the International Stabilization Force (ISF).

Washington has responded to Netanyahu's public stance with a lack of concern. A high ranking U.S. official told Axios that the White House understands Netanyahu's political needs as long as he continues to limit attacks in Gaza. Analysts suggest Netanyahu is attempting to balance the demands of Donald Trump with the pressures of his right wing coalition and the upcoming October 27 elections. Palestinian sources have reacted to the decision by stating that it leaves no clear path to peace.