Israel Resists US Pressure to Advance 15-Point Gaza Plan Amid Iran Crisis

An Israeli official told N12 on August 11 that the United States is exerting heavy pressure on Israel to implement a 15-point plan for Gaza, but Israel is actively trying to block the initiative. The official explained that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu initially underestimated the severity of the situation but has recently begun to grasp its implications. Intense discussions have taken place between Netanyahu and US officials, with Israel ultimately vetoing the plan and opposing any partial or phased disarmament of Hamas. The official emphasized that Israel demands full disarmament of Hamas before considering any further steps and rejects the idea of creating separate zones or partial withdrawals in Gaza.

The 15-point plan, which Israel had previously accepted in principle as an experimental model for a Hamas-free area near Rafah, is now opposed due to Hamas’s strong resistance and a shift in Israeli policy. The official also responded to comments by Nikolay Mladenov, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, who advocated for gradual Israeli withdrawals linked to Hamas disarmament. Israel insists on complete disarmament first and cautions against escalating violence in Gaza, urging careful actions to avoid unnecessary escalation.

Regarding Iran, the Israeli source described the current situation as favorable for Israel, noting Iran’s deepening economic crisis and the increasing pressure of international sanctions. The official confirmed reports that Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi threatened to resign, reflecting internal turmoil. They warned that if the economic blockade continues for another two to three months, Iran could reach a breaking point where public fear barriers collapse due to widespread hardship. Israel sees no need to rush changes in this dynamic, viewing the ongoing crisis as strategically advantageous.

In summary, Israel is resisting US efforts to advance a contentious Gaza plan while monitoring Iran’s internal crisis, emphasizing full Hamas disarmament and cautious regional management.