Israeli Official Says Netanyahu’s Rejection of Gaza Peace Deal Driven by Political Pressure

An Israeli official told Kan News that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent statement rejecting the 15-point Gaza peace agreement proposed by the Peace Council was made under political pressure and does not reflect reality. Shortly after Netanyahu’s declaration, U.S. Admiral Brad Cooper visited the U.S. Central Command base in Israel, meeting with hundreds of American troops stationed there and representatives of the multinational force expected to operate in Gaza under the next phase of the agreement. According to a source present, Cooper reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to the 15-point deal and stated that the U.S. would work to implement it according to the agreed terms.

Three days after Netanyahu’s statement, no new directives have been issued to the Israeli Defense Forces or security agencies, and targeted killings have effectively ceased. However, on the same day, IDF forces eliminated a Hamas sniper who posed an immediate threat to soldiers of the 99th Division; such immediate threat removals do not require special approval and are not restricted by the agreement. The Peace Council clarified that the agreement is between it and Hamas, with ongoing discussions with Israel. They emphasized that Israel is not required to take irreversible steps and that the process is gradual, with each phase contingent on fulfillment of commitments on the ground.

Despite Netanyahu’s rejection, preparations for phase two in Gaza continue at the Kirya base in Gath. American pressure for implementation remains strong, while some Israeli ministers oppose halting attacks in Gaza, advocating continued military operations.