politics
Flip-flopping Netanyahu rejects Gaza plan but cannot placate all his allies
Israeli prime minister faces incompatible demands from his far-right government ministers and from Donald Trump
TL;DR
- Netanyahu publicly rejected a US-backed Gaza plan, contradicting earlier reports of his personal involvement in discussing pilot withdrawal details.
- The Israeli prime minister faces pressure from domestic far-right allies who want to intensify attacks and establish settlements in Gaza.
- Donald Trump, a key supporter, advocates for a permanent settlement and a return to Palestinian control, brokered by his Board of Peace.
- Israeli commanders were reportedly blindsided by Netanyahu's rejection, having discussed the plan and withdrawal points with him and the IDF chief of staff.
- Netanyahu's rejection of the Board of Peace plan is seen as a snub to US goals, particularly after a visit from Adm. Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command.
- Netanyahu has a history of political maneuvering, previously distancing himself from a US-backed ceasefire and hostage release plan in May 2024.
- Recent military decisions, such as scaling back airstrikes and raising the threshold for authorizing attacks, suggest a degree of compliance with US wishes.
- Netanyahu has previously yielded to US pressure, limiting offensives in Lebanon and ordering jets back from Iran.
- The article suggests Netanyahu's public rhetoric combined with some conciliatory actions may have bought him time, but US patience is limited.
- The situation in Gaza remains dire, with ongoing Israeli attacks, blocked reconstruction supplies, and widespread food shortages, particularly affecting children.
- Netanyahu's office denied reports of discussing detailed withdrawal plans.