Israeli Far-Right Coalition Rejects US-Led Gaza Governance Plan Over Settlement Fears.
In a move likely to further destabilize already tense relations, far-right ministers in Israel's governing coalition have rejected a US-backed plan for postwar governance in the Gaza Strip. The proposal, aimed at establishing a new framework for peace and stability in the war-torn territory, would bring together world leaders including Turkey and Qatar.
The plan's rejection was led by Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli far-right finance minister who has been vocal about his opposition to Palestinian statehood and settlement expansion. Smotrich criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for what he saw as a lack of leadership on the Gaza issue, instead calling for a military government in the territory that would prioritize immigration and settlement.
The US-backed plan involves an advisory role for Turkey's foreign minister and a Qatari diplomat, alongside other regional and international officials. The proposal has sparked concerns among far-right coalition members who fear it could undermine Israeli control over the Gaza Strip.
In a statement on social media, Smotrich expressed opposition to countries that support Hamas hosting them in Gaza. He also urged Netanyahu to take a firmer stance against US pressure, warning of potential strain on relations with Washington.
Netanyahu's government has faced intense pressure from its far-right allies to pursue more aggressive policies towards Palestinians and their supporters. The prime minister himself has objected to key elements of the US plan, citing concerns over coordination with Israel and policy consistency.
Turkey and Egypt have already expressed opposition to Israeli involvement in post-war Gaza governance, further complicating the already fraught situation. Pakistan's government has received an invitation to join the US-led board of peace, which could further exacerbate tensions among coalition members.
The proposal is part of a broader US effort to broker a ceasefire and establish transitional governance in Gaza. However, with violence persisting and at least 451 Palestinians reported killed since the current ceasefire took effect last October, the prospects for lasting stability look increasingly uncertain.
In a move likely to further destabilize already tense relations, far-right ministers in Israel's governing coalition have rejected a US-backed plan for postwar governance in the Gaza Strip. The proposal, aimed at establishing a new framework for peace and stability in the war-torn territory, would bring together world leaders including Turkey and Qatar.
The plan's rejection was led by Bezalel Smotrich, Israeli far-right finance minister who has been vocal about his opposition to Palestinian statehood and settlement expansion. Smotrich criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for what he saw as a lack of leadership on the Gaza issue, instead calling for a military government in the territory that would prioritize immigration and settlement.
The US-backed plan involves an advisory role for Turkey's foreign minister and a Qatari diplomat, alongside other regional and international officials. The proposal has sparked concerns among far-right coalition members who fear it could undermine Israeli control over the Gaza Strip.
In a statement on social media, Smotrich expressed opposition to countries that support Hamas hosting them in Gaza. He also urged Netanyahu to take a firmer stance against US pressure, warning of potential strain on relations with Washington.
Netanyahu's government has faced intense pressure from its far-right allies to pursue more aggressive policies towards Palestinians and their supporters. The prime minister himself has objected to key elements of the US plan, citing concerns over coordination with Israel and policy consistency.
Turkey and Egypt have already expressed opposition to Israeli involvement in post-war Gaza governance, further complicating the already fraught situation. Pakistan's government has received an invitation to join the US-led board of peace, which could further exacerbate tensions among coalition members.
The proposal is part of a broader US effort to broker a ceasefire and establish transitional governance in Gaza. However, with violence persisting and at least 451 Palestinians reported killed since the current ceasefire took effect last October, the prospects for lasting stability look increasingly uncertain.