Israeli Officials Warn of Potential Clash with US Over Gaza Withdrawal Conditions

Senior Israeli officials have expressed concerns that insisting on an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza before Hamas disarms could lead to a direct confrontation with Washington. Following a ceasefire agreement with Hamas revealed by Channel 13, Israeli sources emphasized that Israel will not retreat even a millimeter without Hamas fully disarming. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing upcoming elections, reportedly refuses any withdrawal without Hamas's disarmament.

Earlier statements reiterated Israel's position against any pullback from the current military line in Gaza without a genuine dismantling of Hamas's weapons. Meanwhile, the Peace Council published a framework for implementing the second phase of the ceasefire, which includes an immediate full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and cessation of military actions by Hamas and other Palestinian factions. The plan envisions transferring all civil and security responsibilities in Gaza to a newly formed National Committee, which will oversee the agreement's implementation.

Sources told Saudi channel Al-Hadath that the US has committed to pressuring Netanyahu to comply with the agreement and act as its guarantor. The National Committee, including Arab representatives and international stabilization forces, will verify compliance before advancing to the next phase. The framework aligns with US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan aimed at ending the cycle of destruction and enabling economic development in Gaza.

Critics within Israel, including former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot and National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, condemned the agreement. Eisenkot accused Netanyahu of political weakness and warned against allowing Hamas to remain armed, while Ben-Gvir rejected the ceasefire draft, insisting that targeted killings of Hamas operatives must continue.

President Trump announced the agreement as historic, promising a new Palestinian governance in Gaza working with the Peace Council and ensuring Israel's security. US officials expect full Israeli cooperation and warn that Trump will be disappointed if Israel resists. They noted initial distrust between Hamas and Israel and highlighted the roles of Jared Kushner and Mohammed Dahlan in mediating the deal. Hamas leaders reportedly delayed implementation pending Israeli approval, demanding Israel begin the first phase before Hamas disarms. Hamas also requested a long-term truce of 10 to 15 years without Israeli attacks or assassinations and a phased Israeli withdrawal.

The signing ceremony is expected next week, with US officials stressing that the agreement excludes demands beyond the 20-point plan and that Israel prefers to avoid escalation with the US at this time. The involvement of Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt was acknowledged despite Israeli reservations. Iran reportedly tried to dissuade Hamas from accepting the deal.