Peace Council Clashes With Netanyahu Over Gaza Disarmament Plan

Two days before a deadline set by Jared Kushner, former President Trump's envoy, for the disarmament of Hamas, a severe crisis has erupted between the Peace Council and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Peace Council accuses Netanyahu of obstructing the process for political reasons, specifically citing his refusal to commit to a 14-day halt in targeted assassinations of Hamas operatives.

According to the Peace Council, Netanyahu's continued pursuit of Hamas officials, including senior commanders involved in the October 7th attacks, prevents the initiation of Hamas's disarmament. They believe the process cannot begin until after the upcoming Israeli elections. The Council suggests that the alternative to their 15-point plan is a military administration in Gaza, an option that has reportedly been presented to Netanyahu.

Israel, meanwhile, continues its policy of assassinations, targeting individuals involved in the October 7th massacre. In the past week, commanders of Hamas battalions in Jabalia, Khan Younis, and Rafah have been eliminated.

A source from the Peace Council expressed skepticism about Hamas but emphasized their proposal's reliance on verification. The plan involves a 14-day ceasefire from targeted killings, during which Hamas would cease military activity and rearmament, then surrender its weapons and relinquish control of Gaza. If Hamas fails to comply, Israel would have international legitimacy to act.

The source further stated that Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected this proposal, preventing Hamas's sincerity from being tested. They argue that continued rearmament by Hamas and sporadic assassinations do not lead to a decisive outcome or resolve the core issue of Hamas's continued rule in Gaza. The Peace Council and former President Trump aim for a demilitarized Gaza without Hamas governance, a goal they fully support Israel in achieving, but stress the need for full coordination with Trump and a departure from pre-October 7th policies.