US Prepares Gaza Victory Gesture for Netanyahu Ahead of Israeli Elections

The US administration is working to create a significant "victory image" for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Gaza Strip before the upcoming Israeli elections, according to analyst Amit Segal. The plan involves transferring weapons in Gaza to American control prior to the elections, while Israel's partial withdrawal is expected only after the polls close. This move comes despite tensions between Netanyahu and the White House, with Trump reportedly withholding public support for Netanyahu for months. Nevertheless, the US has aligned with most Israeli demands regarding Gaza.

Segal also reported that Jared Kushner met with senior Hamas officials. The US explains these talks as a continuation of last year's efforts to secure the release of 56 hostages and to seek a long-term solution for Gaza's future. The US administration maintains its goal that Hamas will not remain armed or govern Gaza, emphasizing that the method to achieve this is less important than the outcome.

During hostage negotiations, a senior Israeli defense official reportedly communicated directly by phone with Hamas leaders. The US uses this fact to counter criticism in Israel about their direct contacts with Hamas. Another concern for Israel is the involvement of Qatar and Turkey after any agreement. While neither country is expected to send troops to Gaza, they will participate in a supervisory council monitoring Israel's compliance with the agreement.

Most Israeli concerns were addressed in talks with the US, but a key worry remains that the international body operating in Gaza might not disarm Hamas but instead act as a buffer between the IDF and Hamas, potentially restricting Israel's freedom of action.