Netanyahu Vows to Oppose U.S. Demands for Withdrawals Amid Gaza Peace Council Approval

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the Security Cabinet before his trip to the United States that the Americans are demanding a series of withdrawals on three fronts: Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon. Netanyahu declared his intention to firmly oppose these demands, stating, "I will say no to them." Earlier on Sunday, the Security Cabinet unanimously approved the entry of the U.S.-initiated Peace Council into Gaza territory, with only National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir dissenting.

A senior official explained that the approval aligns with President Donald Trump's 20-point plan, which facilitated the release of all hostages. Israel insists that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will maintain control over the "yellow line" border and will not withdraw unless Hamas is fully disarmed and Gaza is completely demilitarized. The initial deployment involves about 200 representatives from friendly countries such as Uganda and Morocco.

The Cabinet also granted immunity under the "Immunities for International Organizations" law to the International Stabilization Force (ISF), which will operate in coordination with the IDF beyond the yellow line in areas not under Israeli control. Any ISF deployment requires individual approval by the Prime Minister, Defense Minister, and Foreign Minister. Only countries with peace agreements with Israel and no hostile actions against it or its officials internationally will be permitted to send forces.

Last week, the Associated Press revealed that the IDF is constructing a large earthen barrier separating Israeli-controlled areas in Gaza from Hamas-controlled western parts, spanning over 23 kilometers, more than half the length of the Gaza Strip. This physical barrier corresponds to the yellow line established in the October ceasefire agreement, supported by the U.S., which marked a temporary territorial division pending further Israeli withdrawal.

Additionally, a recent Guardian report disclosed that the Peace Council plans to grant itself broad legal immunity and free ownership of public lands in Gaza, according to a sensitive but unclassified draft decision. This protection extends to council members, administrative branches, the Office of the High Representative, Palestinian technocrats, international military forces, and foreign contractors operating in Gaza.