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TENSIONS WITH WASHINGTON

Israeli Official Rejects Gaza Withdrawal Reports and Demands Full Demilitarization

Following Palestinian reports of a second-phase deal leaving Hamas armed, a senior Israeli official clarified that no withdrawal will occur without complete disarmament. Israel submitted strong objections to envoy Tony Blair regarding the "15-point document," stressing that Gaza must be fully demilitarized

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visiting Trump in the White House

In response to widespread Palestinian reports claiming progress toward a second-phase Gaza agreement, a senior Israeli official issued a firm response, clarifying that Israel will not compromise on its core security requirements. The official emphasized that the complete disarmament of Hamas and the removal of all weaponry from the Gaza Strip remain non-negotiable prerequisites. Additionally, the official noted that the issue of Gaza was not raised during the recent meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Donald Trump.

Rejection of the 15-Point Outline

The Israeli statements directly counter claims published by Palestinian outlets asserting that a 15-clause framework was reached to end fighting while leaving Hamas armed with stored heavy weapons. International envoy and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair has been developing this 15-point document to address post-war governance and security arrangements. However, Israeli officials confirmed they submitted detailed objections to Blair, stating the proposal fails to adequately ensure full demilitarization or address the threat to Israeli communities.

Standing Firm on the Yellow Line

Israeli leadership reiterated that IDF troops will not withdraw from the "Yellow Line"—the strategic defense positions secured during ground operations—prior to total demilitarization. While international actors and regional mediators including Egypt and Qatar push to expedite an agreement, Israel’s firm stance highlights a rare public rift with Washington, signaling that war objectives and national security needs will take precedence over external diplomatic pressure.

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