Israel Denies Plans to Expel German and Italian Representatives from Gaza Coordination Center

A senior Israeli official has firmly denied reports published by the Financial Times suggesting that Israel is considering expelling German and Italian representatives from the International Gaza Support Center in Kiryat Gat. The official described these claims as "fake," emphasizing that Israel has no intention of taking action against friendly countries like Germany and Italy.

The denial follows earlier reports that Israel was contemplating removing British representatives from the center, possibly extending similar measures to other European nations amid escalating political pressures and actions against Israel by some European states. The International Gaza Support Center, formerly known as the Civil-Military Coordination Center, operates under U.S. leadership with Israeli Defense Forces cooperation, hosting military and diplomatic personnel from around 50 countries and international organizations.

While Israel has taken steps against certain European countries, such as expelling Dutch representatives due to their boycott of Israeli products from disputed territories and earlier removing Spanish representatives over perceived anti-Israel bias, it maintains different relations with Germany and Italy. Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar recently criticized Britain for its stance on settlement expansion and trade restrictions, underscoring Israel's refusal to tolerate actions against it without response.

The Financial Times report also mentioned that any decision to expel additional international representatives might require approval from the U.S.-led "Peace Council" established under former President Donald Trump’s Gaza plan. However, Israeli officials stress their sovereign right to decide who may enter and remain in their territory. Both Israeli and Italian sources have rejected the notion that Germany and Italy would be targeted, with the Israeli official reiterating that such claims are false.

Summary: Israel has denied reports that it plans to expel German and Italian representatives from the International Gaza Support Center, calling the claims false amid ongoing tensions with some European countries. The center, based in Kiryat Gat, involves international cooperation to monitor ceasefire implementation in Gaza. Israel has taken action against other European nations but maintains good relations with Germany and Italy.