Israel Tells US Hamas Militants From October 7 Attack Are Not Immune to Targeted Killings

Israel has informed the US government that militants involved in the October 7 massacre are not protected from targeted killings. However, Jerusalem acknowledges a willingness to negotiate targeted operations unrelated to the events of that day. On the same day, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a 15-point peace document and affirmed that the Israel Defense Forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed.

A source from the Gaza Peace Council told CNN that despite political tensions, behind-the-scenes cooperation with Israel continues. Netanyahu emphasized that "disarming Hamas" means confiscating all heavy and light weapons, not a superficial disarmament. He noted ongoing discussions with the US, which has proposed ideas some of which Israel accepts and others it rejects.

Last week, Israeli officials expressed shock and embarrassment in the Prime Minister's Office following the publication of a proposed agreement framework. After a meeting between Netanyahu and Nikolay Mladenov, head of the Gaza Peace Council, the council stated that Israel and the council share a common understanding of final goals. The council clarified that a full IDF withdrawal beyond the "yellow line" will only occur after Hamas completes disarmament, covering light and heavy arms as well as tunnels. This process will be monitored by an international stabilization force and a verification committee including the US and the Gaza Peace Council. Progress depends on all parties fulfilling their agreed commitments.