Senior Peace Council Official Confirms Behind-the-Scenes Cooperation Despite Netanyahu's Rejection of 15-Point Plan

A day after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected the 15-point peace document and declared that the Israel Defense Forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed, a senior official from the Gaza Peace Council told CNN that political tensions have not halted cooperation behind the scenes. Netanyahu emphasized that "disarming Hamas" means dismantling all heavy and light weapons, not a symbolic gesture, and noted ongoing discussions with the United States on this matter. He acknowledged that while some American proposals are acceptable, others are not, and Israel remains firm in its stance.

Last week, Israeli officials expressed shock and embarrassment within the Prime Minister's Office following the publication of the agreement framework. However, after Netanyahu met with Nikolay Mladenov, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process and head of the Peace Council, the council issued a statement affirming a shared understanding of the ultimate goals between Israel and the council.

The statement clarified that a full IDF withdrawal beyond the "yellow line" will only occur after Hamas completes disarmament commitments, covering light and heavy weapons as well as tunnels. Implementation will be monitored by an international stabilization force and a verification committee including the US and the Peace Council. Progress toward full implementation depends on all parties fulfilling their agreed obligations.