Palestine weekly: Netanyahu hedges on Gaza roadmap

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected a 15-point Gaza roadmap proposed by US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace, stating Israel would not withdraw until Hamas is disarmed. Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to the plan, seeking guarantees on a ceasefire, withdrawal, aid, and reconstruction. Despite the public rejection, attacks in Gaza significantly decreased this week, and reports indicate secret approval for rehabilitation work in eastern Rafah, though concerns exist about further entrenching Israeli military presence. International forces are reportedly being prepared for a phased Israeli pullback. Meanwhile, Israeli forces conducted a multi-day operation in the Qalandiya refugee camp in the West Bank, resulting in detentions and injuries.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point Gaza plan proposed by the Trump administration, which aimed for Hamas disarmament and Israeli withdrawal. Despite Netanyahu's public refusal, the White House reportedly views his statement as campaign rhetoric ahead of Israel's upcoming general election. A senior US official indicated understanding of Netanyahu's political needs, provided Israel continues to restrain attacks in Gaza. The plan, which Hamas had agreed to conditionally, includes the deployment of an International Stabilization Force and the establishment of a new Palestinian administration. Netanyahu stated Israel will not withdraw until Hamas is genuinely disarmed, emphasizing the need for heavy and light weaponry to be decommissioned.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected a US-backed deal for Gaza, a move that reportedly blindsided IDF commanders who had been discussing its implementation. This decision appears to be a gamble to appease his far-right domestic allies, who advocate for intensified attacks and settlements in Gaza, ahead of upcoming elections. The US-backed plan, brokered by Donald Trump's Board of Peace, included Hamas committing to disarm and a potential pilot military withdrawal by Israel. Netanyahu's rejection defies US pressure to end conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, risking alienation of Trump, a crucial ally. While the US administration initially seemed to view the rejection as electioneering, Netanyahu's conflicting domestic and international demands create evident strains.

US President Donald Trump has demanded compensation from Iran for alleged damages over the past 50 years, framing it as a response to Tehran's condition for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has stated it will only reopen the strait, through which a significant portion of global oil flows, if Washington agrees to pay war reparations and end sanctions. Trump claims the compensation would cover deaths among US forces and Iranian civilians, citing figures of 52,000 killed in Iran in the past four months, though other reports offer different numbers. Talks between Iran and Oman regarding the strait are ongoing, but Trump's demands could complicate efforts to reopen the maritime passage. The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively blocked since the start of the US-Israel war on Iran in February, impacting oil prices and inflation.

Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's explicit rejection of a US-led 15-point peace plan for Gaza, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Monday that their relationship remains "very good." Netanyahu formally refused to endorse the plan, which proposed Israel withdrawing forces in exchange for Hamas disarmament, after days of escalating criticism. This rejection aligns with pressure from Netanyahu's right-wing base and cabinet members. The plan, announced by Trump late last month, outlined a phased approach for armed groups in Gaza to surrender weapons to a new Palestinian governing body, with Israel beginning troop withdrawals to end the conflict. Netanyahu had previously acknowledged receiving a draft but disagreed with it, making Sunday his first formal assertion of refusal.

President Trump has demanded that Iran pay compensation for the deaths of thousands of US soldiers and Iranian civilians over recent decades. This demand, made via Truth Social, is seen as a sign that negotiations to end conflicts and reopen the Strait of Hormuz have stalled. Trump stated this is in response to Iranian negotiators making similar claims for damages from the recent five-month war. The demands are likely to provoke anger in Tehran and are considered a nonstarter by Iranian leaders. This comes as Israel has rejected Trump's 15-point roadmap to end the war in Gaza, with Prime Minister Netanyahu stating Israel prioritizes its security. Trump also expanded his demands to include compensation for damages and deaths caused in Lebanon, Syria, Yemen, and Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected United States President Donald Trump's 15-point plan for Gaza, stating that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is "genuinely disarmed." The plan, proposed by the US-led Board of Peace, outlined a phased framework for disarmament and reconstruction, with Hamas surrendering weapons in exchange for an Israeli military withdrawal and a new Palestinian governing body. Netanyahu, facing pressure from his right-wing base ahead of elections, insists on complete disarmament before any pull-back, emphasizing the need for "real disarmament, not fictitious disarmament." This rejection creates significant challenges for mediators working on the plan, while Palestinians in Gaza anticipate increased uncertainty.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel rejects a 15-point Gaza proposal from the Board of Peace. He stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is "genuinely disarmed" of all its weapons. While Israel is discussing Hamas disarmament with the United States, Netanyahu emphasized that any agreement must involve the complete surrender of Hamas's arsenal. Hamas, however, remains committed to a roadmap agreed upon with mediators and expects the US and mediators to pressure Israel to adhere to it. Netanyahu also reiterated his opposition to a Palestinian state in Gaza or the West Bank.

The Board of Peace, established in October 2025 under President Trump's peace plan for Gaza, has failed to achieve its mandate of overseeing a ceasefire, reconstruction, and Israeli withdrawal. The article argues the board lacks the power, funding, and legal standing to be effective, instead providing political cover for continued Israeli actions in Gaza. Despite promises of reconstruction, the majority of the population remains in poor conditions, and the board has not condemned Israeli demolitions or land expansion. Major countries have declined to join, and funding pledges have not materialized. The article concludes that the Palestinian issue should be returned to the UN framework and international law.

A Board of Peace official, Nikolay Mladenov, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem to discuss a new disarmament deal with Hamas. The agreement, announced by President Donald Trump, aims for the complete decommissioning of weapons in Gaza and a transition to civilian governance. Mladenov also urged Netanyahu to halt Israeli strikes in Gaza, as the Board of Peace pushes for the implementation of the disarmament plan. Israel had previously expressed "serious security concerns" regarding the agreement and had increased strikes in Gaza, resulting in civilian casualties. The article notes that no airstrikes were recorded in Gaza on the day of the meeting.

US President Donald Trump announced on Saturday evening via social media that Middle Eastern allies have outlined parameters for a deal to end the Iran war. Consequently, he has agreed to postpone further strikes in the ongoing conflict. Trump stated the proposed deal would involve the immediate and complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. He indicated that Israel has agreed to collaborate with the US on this agreement. Trump emphasized that this decision was made for the benefit of the world and the prosperity of Iran, contingent on the ability to finalize a deal. Iran had not publicly responded to Trump's announcement at the time of the report.

The US-led Board of Peace, represented by director Nickolay Mladenov, has stated that an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza will only occur after Hamas completes its disarmament. This clarification followed a meeting between Mladenov and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in West Jerusalem, amidst tensions surrounding a Gaza disarmament roadmap and recent Israeli attacks. The Board emphasized that the decommissioning of all weapons, including light and heavy arms and tunnels, must be finalized before Israeli forces move beyond the "Yellow Line." Hamas, however, insists the deal will not be implemented unless Israel fulfills its obligations. Mladenov reportedly urged Netanyahu to cease attacks on Gaza, a request Israel has refused, continuing military actions despite a ceasefire agreement.

President Trump announced the US would delay new strikes on Iran, provided a deal to end the conflict is quickly reached. This decision followed intervention by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who reportedly urged de-escalation due to concerns about Iranian retaliation against Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries. Iran had threatened decisive retaliation against neighbors if attacked, and reports indicated Iranian drones hit Kuwait and two ships were attacked off Oman. Trump stated the delay is contingent on Iran opening the Strait of Hormuz and ending its nuclear program.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed concerns to President Donald Trump during a Saturday phone call regarding potential U.S. escalation of conflict with Iran. The discussion occurred as Trump considers new strikes on Iran. Saudi Arabia fears that U.S. attacks on Iranian infrastructure could lead to retaliatory strikes on Gulf energy facilities. The Crown Prince sought clarification on Trump's potential actions. This comes after Saudi Arabia joined the U.S. in striking militia sites in Iraq, while also advocating for negotiations between the U.S. and Iran. The White House confirmed the call but provided no details.

President Trump announced he would halt threatened strikes against Iran, stating a deal was near that would include the immediate opening of the Strait of Hormuz. Iran dismissed this, calling Trump's comments "psychological operations." The strategically vital Strait of Hormuz remains under Iranian control, with ships only able to pass if permitted by Iran's armed forces. Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince spoke with Trump, emphasizing dialogue to reduce escalation. Previous attempts at an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz have failed, with Iran maintaining control over passage arrangements. The conflict has also impacted the Red Sea, though tensions were calmer on Sunday.

President Donald Trump announced he will halt new strikes against Iran, stating that Middle Eastern allies have reached parameters for a deal to end the five-month war. The emerging agreement, according to Trump, would include the complete opening of the Strait of Hormuz and an end to Iran's nuclear threat. Israel has agreed to join the U.S. in pursuing this agreement. This announcement comes after Trump had suggested a resumption of heavy military strikes was imminent. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman had previously expressed concerns to Trump about potential escalation and Iranian retaliation. The U.S. and Israel initiated the conflict on February 28th, aiming to dismantle Tehran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear weapon acquisition.

A deal has been announced for Hamas to disarm in stages in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, following nearly three years of conflict. The agreement, confirmed by the US and other mediators, was heralded by President Trump as a historic step towards lasting peace. However, concerns about implementation are widespread due to past failures and deep mistrust between the parties. Hamas insists disarmament is contingent on Israel ending hostilities and withdrawing forces, while some Israeli officials, like National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, have rejected the draft. Palestinian Islamic Jihad also expressed reservations about the agreement. The technocratic National Committee for the Administration of Gaza welcomed the roadmap.

Hamas has confirmed it will disarm as part of a U.S.-brokered deal to end the Gaza war, which also requires Israel to withdraw. However, Hamas states its heavy weapons disarmament is contingent on the creation of a Palestinian state, a condition Israel's government rejects. This deal, part of a ceasefire announced last October, has faced stalled progress due to ongoing Israeli strikes and Hamas accusations of violations. Meanwhile, Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed to have struck two oil tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, and Kuwait reported intercepting Iranian drones. Saudi Arabia also announced a 14-country defense alliance to enhance maritime security in the Red Sea region, amidst disruptions to global shipping caused by the Iran conflict.

Donald Trump announced an agreement for the "complete disarmament" of Hamas in Gaza, presented as a step towards a new Palestinian government and Israeli security. However, neither Hamas nor Israel immediately confirmed the agreement, and sources close to the talks indicated uncertainty about its viability. An Israeli official stated that the proposed terms were unsatisfactory, as Israel demands complete disarmament and demilitarization as a precondition. Hamas leaders are reportedly discussing the plan with mediators, with a Hamas official indicating a "positive and good" response, though not confirming full disarmament. The proposed roadmap includes transferring authority to a US-backed Palestinian committee and eliminating militant infrastructure, based on reciprocal steps. The article notes that the reality on the ground in Gaza contrasts with this plan, with ongoing Israeli military operations.

Hamas has announced its acceptance of a disarmament plan for Gaza, which includes laying down its arms and an Israeli troop withdrawal. This development, described by US President Donald Trump as a significant step towards peace, is based on a 15-point US-led roadmap and a four-page document seen by the BBC. The plan outlines a phased disarmament process for Hamas and other Palestinian factions, overseen by the Palestinian National Committee and an International Stabilisation Force, with heavy weapons to be stored securely. This disarmament is conditional on Israel fulfilling its commitments under an initial ceasefire agreement. Israel, however, remains skeptical of Hamas's willingness to disarm and insists on no withdrawal until Hamas lays down its weapons. The plan also addresses the future of civil servants employed by Hamas's former government.

A new agreement for Gaza, announced by President Trump, aims to end the Israel-Hamas war through Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and the transition to a civilian governing body. The international Board of Peace, established by Trump, will oversee the implementation of this deal, which requires Hamas to surrender weapons and tunnels. This agreement follows months of difficult negotiations and aims to pave the way for reconstruction, estimated to cost $70 billion. Hamas has agreed to the disarmament, while Israel has not yet commented. The National Committee for the Administration of Gaza will manage the region post-Hamas control, including establishing a new police force. Challenges remain, including Israeli suspicion of certain board members and Palestinian concerns about representation.

US President Donald Trump announced a deal for Hamas to disarm in exchange for an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, claiming Israel is "very happy" with the arrangement. Hamas has confirmed its agreement to the first step of this plan, which involves surrendering weapons to a Palestinian committee. However, Israel has not yet formally agreed to the terms, with some officials expressing strong opposition. The agreement, brokered by mediators, includes the establishment of an International Board of Peace chaired by Trump and a Palestinian committee to oversee Gaza's administration. The process involves Hamas preparing an inventory of weapons, followed by oversight from an International Stabilization Force and a new Palestinian police force, with incremental Israeli withdrawal occurring concurrently. The timeline for these steps remains unclear and contingent on Israeli approval and changes in the security situation on the ground.

The US military conducted "heavy" strikes against Iran on Wednesday in retaliation for attempted Iranian ballistic missile attacks on American forces. Centcom stated these strikes targeted "dozens" of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets in response to Iran firing missiles at US bases in Jordan and ships in the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. These actions follow recent US-Saudi strikes on Iranian proxies in Iraq and come after a period of relative calm during which talks for a diplomatic solution were reportedly underway, though Iran denied discussions were happening. All Iranian missiles fired on Tuesday were intercepted.

Jordan's air defenses intercepted five missiles launched from Iran early Wednesday, with the Jordanian military confirming they were destroyed. This occurred shortly after the U.S. military announced it had downed an Iranian missile barrage targeting American forces in the Middle East, ending a brief lull in hostilities. U.S. Central Command stated that all Iranian missiles aimed at U.S. forces were intercepted. In conjunction with Saudi Arabia, U.S. forces also struck sites in Iraq used by Iran-backed militias for launching attacks. The U.S. warned that further aggression against American troops or Saudi energy infrastructure would prompt additional action.

Saudi Arabia and thirteen other nations have formed the Multinational Maritime Defense Alliance to enhance collective maritime defense cooperation and secure vital waterways. Announced on Thursday, the alliance aims to protect freedom of navigation, international trade, and energy supply routes through the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden. This initiative comes amid escalating hostilities, particularly attacks by Iran-backed Houthi fighters on this strategic corridor. The alliance's activities will include intelligence sharing, operational planning, and joint exercises, with its nature described as purely defensive. The participating states view maritime security as a shared responsibility to confront transnational threats.