Israeli Security Establishment Surprised by Netanyahu's Rejection of Gaza Withdrawal Plan

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu surprised the security establishment by abruptly rejecting the 15-point peace council plan that included limited Israeli withdrawals from Gaza. Despite previously attending discussions on partial pullbacks in three areas near Rafah, Netanyahu announced on August 9, 2026, that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) will not withdraw from any territory until Hamas is fully disarmed.

The security apparatus had been deliberating a pilot program involving the replacement of IDF forces with a multinational force in three Rafah-adjacent zones, a plan initially approved with American cooperation. These talks also addressed coordination between the IDF and the multinational force, including specific withdrawal points and remaining positions within Gaza.

Sources within the security establishment said Netanyahu’s change of stance emerged only in the last 24 hours and was learned through media reports, despite his prior consent during the meetings. Netanyahu emphasized that Israel is negotiating with the United States on disarming Hamas, accepting some American proposals while rejecting others, and vowed to continue thwarting threats against Israeli forces and civilians.

This development marks a significant shift from earlier government discussions and highlights ongoing tensions between political leadership and security officials regarding Gaza policy. The future of the proposed pilot withdrawal remains uncertain following Netanyahu’s public dismissal of the plan.