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

Israeli defense officials expressed surprise at Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's abrupt change in stance regarding the planned withdrawal from certain points in the Gaza Strip. According to sources within the defense establishment, the shift occurred within the last 24 hours and was only learned through media reports, as Netanyahu had previously approved the plan in earlier discussions. The plan, known as the "15 points" initiative by the Peace Council in Gaza, involved a partial Israeli withdrawal from positions near Rafah. However, Netanyahu announced at a government meeting that Israel would reject this plan, stating that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would not withdraw until Hamas is genuinely disarmed.

This development contrasts with prior agreements where Netanyahu had consented to the withdrawal strategy. The defense establishment's surprise highlights a communication gap between the Prime Minister's office and security agencies. Netanyahu's declaration came amid ongoing regional tensions, including recent attacks by the Houthi militia in Yemen and political shifts in Iran, such as the appointment of former Revolutionary Guards commander Mohsen Rezaei as secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Additionally, oil prices rose following Iran's demands to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, and Lebanese diplomatic sources indicated no imminent negotiations with Israel.

The defense establishment's reaction underscores the complexity of Israeli security policy and the challenges in coordinating decisions on Gaza amid broader Middle Eastern dynamics. Netanyahu's firm stance ties any Israeli withdrawal to the complete dismantling of Hamas's military capabilities, signaling a hardline approach to the Gaza conflict going forward.