Israeli Source Says Current Gaza Situation Benefits Netanyahu Ahead of Elections

An Israeli official told Channel 13 on Friday that Israel has requested the United States to delay advancing any political moves in Gaza until after the upcoming elections. The official stated, "The current situation is best for Netanyahu; no plan should be promoted in Gaza before the elections," adding that this stance contradicts the wishes of the Americans. This comment comes amid reports that Jared Kushner, senior advisor and son-in-law to U.S. President Donald Trump, may visit Israel next week to hold meetings across the Middle East aimed at advancing the Gaza plan.

According to AFP, American officials say the U.S. and Israel agree on the desired outcome in Gaza but share many concerns they plan to address together. The Trump administration is eager to push the agreement forward, but Netanyahu opposes it. The Israeli source reiterated that the current stalemate benefits Netanyahu politically and that Israel has asked the U.S. not to promote diplomatic initiatives in Gaza before the elections.

Additionally, it was reported that Mohammed Dahlan, a former top security official in Gaza and a leading figure in Fatah, is spearheading a pilot project to establish a humanitarian city in Rafah. Dahlan, who is closely connected to the United Arab Emirates and holds influence in the White House, acts as an advisor to the Trump administration on Gaza affairs and leads communications with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Hamas has approved Dahlan to lead this initiative in Rafah, despite opposition from the Palestinian Authority.