Hamas and Mediators Warn Trump Netanyahu Plans Gaza Operation Before Elections

Hamas and mediating countries have sent a message to U.S. President Donald Trump claiming that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu intends to launch a military operation in Gaza before the upcoming elections. They warned Trump that Israel seeks an endless war in Gaza and urged him to prevent Netanyahu from proceeding. A source from the mediating states told Channel 13 that they convinced Trump Netanyahu is a highly problematic figure regarding Gaza.

The message was part of a letter Hamas sent to the White House, published recently, in which Hamas leaders expressed willingness to abide by an agreement and disarm, requesting a long-term truce of 10 to 15 years during which Israel would halt attacks, targeted killings, and begin troop withdrawals from Gaza. Earlier, the Peace Council unveiled a plan for implementing the second phase of a ceasefire agreement, including Israel's immediate full withdrawal from Gaza and Hamas and Palestinian factions ceasing all military activities and transferring civil and security authority to a new committee.

Sources told Saudi channel Al-Hadath that the U.S. promised Hamas it would pressure Netanyahu to comply with the agreement and that Washington would guarantee its enforcement. Once the roadmap is approved, a national committee including Arab representatives, Peace Council members, and international stabilization forces will oversee Gaza's management and verify compliance before moving to the next phase.

Israeli officials criticized the agreement. Former IDF Chief Gadi Eisenkot condemned Netanyahu for political weakness and leaving Hamas in power, linking it to the October 7 attacks. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir rejected the Peace Council's draft, insisting targeted killings of Hamas operatives must continue. President Trump announced the agreement on social media, calling it historic and a critical step toward peace and security, emphasizing that Gaza would no longer serve as a terror base.

A Peace Council source revealed internal Hamas disagreements over signing the deal, with pressure from Trump’s envoy Jared Kushner and Fatah leader Mohammed Dahlan playing key roles. The signing ceremony is expected next week. U.S. officials expect full Israeli cooperation, stating the national committee will replace both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority in Gaza. They acknowledged distrust between Hamas and Israel but highlighted a framework allowing progress without trust. The U.S. also noted criticism in Israel over Qatar and Turkey’s involvement, though they aided alongside Egypt.

Hamas official Ghazi Hamad told Reuters Hamas will not begin disarmament until Israel formally approves and starts implementing the agreement’s first phase.