Dispute over Gaza plan: Netanyahu accused of withholding details from cabinet
The IDF has paused strikes in the Gaza Strip amid negotiations on demilitarization. Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Struck claim the cabinet was misled regarding the details of the proposed plan.
Over the past 24 hours, the IDF has not conducted strikes in the Gaza Strip, pausing a months-long campaign against the terrorists who raided Israel on October 7. This follows a meeting between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Peace Council CEO Nickolay Mladenov, who requested a two-week cessation of attacks to facilitate agreements with Hamas.
The proposed agreement outlines a gradual process of dismantling terrorist organizations in Gaza alongside a full Israeli withdrawal. However, political sources stated today that "Israel will not withdraw from the current line in the Gaza Strip and will continue to thwart any threat to our citizens and soldiers."
Cabinet tensions
Ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Orit Struck have publicly criticized the plan, claiming the cabinet was presented with false information. They argue that the "roadmap" does not ensure true demilitarization but rather transfers weaponry into Palestinian hands.
"The whole demilitarization is a fake. There is no disarmament, but rather its transfer to Palestinian hands, acting according to the laws of Ramallah, which do not view terror against Jews as an offense," the ministers stated.
Peace Council response
In response to the backlash, the Peace Council issued a statement describing the meeting with Netanyahu as constructive. They clarified that a full IDF withdrawal beyond the "yellow line" would only occur after complete disarmament, including the destruction of tunnels and all weaponry. Implementation will be monitored by an International Stabilization Force and a verification committee involving the United States.
A source within the Peace Council dismissed claims that Netanyahu was uninformed as "nonsense," asserting that all materials had been provided to the Prime Minister's Office and the National Security Council weeks ago.
Operational update
Despite the political debate, the IDF continues its operations. The IDF spokesperson announced the elimination of Mahmoud Fatair, a Nukhba commander from the Islamic Jihad who participated in the October 7 attacks.
Last week, US President Donald Trump announced a 20-point plan, describing it as a historic milestone for the complete disarmament of armed organizations in the Gaza Strip.
