US Command in Israel Prepares for Next Phase in Gaza Despite Netanyahu's Rejection of Peace Council Deal

Despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's public rejection of the 15-point agreement proposed by the Gaza Peace Council, Israeli security forces have not received orders to halt the next phase of the plan. According to a source at the American command center in Kiryat Gat, preparations are underway to begin construction of the first multinational force base in Rafah by August 30, marking a preliminary step toward implementing the agreement in Gaza.

Last week, during a cabinet discussion, the Israel Defense Forces outlined key security demands: freedom to eliminate terrorist threats, withdrawal only after Gaza is disarmed, and external oversight of Hamas's weapons transfer, rather than control by the technocratic government. Although some ministers opposed the plan, prompting Netanyahu's public opposition, Israel has effectively started implementing parts of the agreement. Authorization for Gaza strikes has been elevated to the IDF Chief of Staff, and attacks have nearly ceased following political directives.

Mediators between Hamas and the Peace Council expect the United States to pressure Israel to comply with the agreement. The Peace Council is also expected to respond to Netanyahu's statements, emphasizing that all parties must honor their commitments. Netanyahu reiterated in a government meeting that Israel rejects the 15-point document and will not withdraw until Hamas is genuinely disarmed. He affirmed that no Palestinian state will be established under his leadership, neither in Gaza nor the West Bank.

Regarding discussions with the US, Netanyahu acknowledged some ideas are acceptable while others are not, asserting Israel's resolve to counter threats against its forces and citizens. The American Central Command chief recently visited Israel amid ongoing cabinet opposition to the Gaza plan, with officials affirming no retreat from their current policy line.