US Meets Hamas Amid Netanyahu's Strong Opposition to Proposed Disarmament Plan

Former Israeli Consul in Los Angeles Yaki Dayan discussed on 103FM the recent meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Jared Kushner, special advisor to former US President Donald Trump. Dayan analyzed the American approach toward Hamas, highlighting a proposed formula where Hamas would begin disarming simultaneously with a targeted Israeli withdrawal. This approach has raised suspicions within Israel, as officials insist Hamas must fully disarm rather than merely store weapons under Palestinian guard.

Dayan emphasized that Israel will not accept a situation where Hamas dictates the terms of any withdrawal or ceasefire. He noted that Netanyahu's response to the plan was firm rejection, citing a statement from Netanyahu's office clarifying that the Americans would be responsible for overseeing the entire process, a phrasing Dayan found noteworthy. Although the statement was not a joint declaration, it reflected Israel's cautious stance.

Despite Israel's reservations, the Americans are pushing for progress, especially given Israel's reliance on US support regarding Iran's nuclear issue. Dayan warned that Israel must carefully define the limits of compromise to avoid becoming a client state. The discussion underscores ongoing tensions between Israel and the US over how to handle Hamas and the broader peace process.