US Ambassador Expresses Doubts on Plan

Significant questions have arisen regarding the International Peace Council's ability to implement U.S. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee sent a diplomatic cable to the U.S. State Department expressing concern that without a renewed approach, additional personnel, and significant resource allocation, the ambitious plan will struggle to move forward. The primary concern highlighted is a shortage of professional staff within both the Peace Council and the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem. According to the report, Huckabee warned of anticipated difficulties in overseeing Hamas's disarmament, rehabilitating the Strip, and establishing long-term governance and security mechanisms for stability. The Pentagon plans to gradually reduce the presence of U.S. military personnel over the coming year and transfer responsibility to civilian entities, but it remains unclear if adequate preparations are in place for this transition. The cable also raised fears that replacing military personnel with civilians could complicate security coordination with Israel, particularly in intelligence and operational cooperation. This issue is especially critical given the threats from Hamas and the need to prevent its re-establishment in the Strip. The described difficulties present a significant challenge for the Trump administration, which seeks to advance a broad political and security settlement. For Israel, the disarmament of Hamas and ensuring the security of its southern residents remain central components of any future agreement.