Smotrich and Struck Urge Netanyahu to Halt International Stabilization Force Entry into Gaza

Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and Settlement Minister Orit Struck have sent an urgent letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu demanding an immediate convening of the Security Cabinet to block the deployment of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) into the Gaza Strip. They also called for halting the implementation of the peace council's roadmap until it is revised to align with Israel's war objectives and commitments.

The ministers claim the official peace council document significantly differs from the version presented to cabinet members during discussions, leading to decisions based on misleading information. They warn that without prompt action, the roadmap could create a new security reality contradicting Israel's war goals and understandings with international actors.

Key concerns highlighted include the absence of full disarmament of Gaza, as weapons and military infrastructure would be transferred to a new Arab body (NCAG) rather than destroyed. The plan allows for a gradual Israeli withdrawal before complete disarmament, contrary to cabinet principles. The legal framework in Gaza would be based on Palestinian Authority law, which the ministers argue legitimizes terrorism and continues payments to Hamas members removed from power.

Additionally, the ISF's role would shift from disarmament and counterterrorism to merely separating Israeli forces from the NCAG, effectively restricting the Israel Defense Forces' operational freedom. A new international verification committee, including unknown Arab states, would be established without prior cabinet approval, raising security concerns.

The roadmap also lacks conditions linking Gaza's reconstruction to disarmament and openly supports establishing a Palestinian state, which the ministers oppose as an existential threat to Israel. Smotrich and Struck demand that Israel reject the current roadmap, convene the Security Cabinet immediately, and prevent the ISF's entry into Gaza until the roadmap is amended to meet Israel's security and war objectives.