Israel Resists US Pressure on Gaza 15-Point Plan Amid Tough Talks

An Israeli official confirmed on Tuesday that the United States is exerting heavy pressure on Israel to advance a 15-point plan concerning the Gaza Strip. However, Israel is attempting to block the initiative. The official revealed that recent difficult discussions took place between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US administration representatives. Initially, Netanyahu did not fully grasp the severity of the situation but has since understood its implications. Israel has firmly opposed the plan, with Netanyahu ultimately vetoing it. The official emphasized that Israel rejects any gradual or partial disarmament of Gaza, demanding a complete disarmament of Hamas before considering further steps. Israel also opposes disarmament limited to specific areas or a model involving separate zones, calling the initial agreement to the plan a mistake.

Meanwhile, Nikolay Mladenov, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, stated in an interview that the plan does not require immediate implementation and that Israeli withdrawal would be gradual and contingent on progress in disarmament. The Israeli official urged avoiding actions that could escalate tensions with the US, cautioning against numerous targeted killings or dramatic measures that might jeopardize diplomatic efforts. The goal, he said, is to tighten control and prevent any faction in Gaza from undermining the political process.

Regarding Iran, the official described the current situation, marked by stalled negotiations and economic sanctions, as the most favorable for Israel. The economic crisis in Iran could destabilize its regime. He confirmed reports that Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian threatened to resign, attributing this to the increasing economic pressure. The official warned that if conditions persist for another two to three months, Iran might reach a breaking point.