Netanyahu to reject US request for withdrawal from Gaza, Lebanon and Syria: Israeli media

Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed cabinet ministers, ahead of his trip to the United States, that he intends to reject a US request for withdrawal from Gaza, Syria and Lebanon.

Channel 13 cited sources saying that Netanyahu stressed his determination to firmly oppose these demands.

The Israeli cabinet approved the entry of the “Peace Council,” established at the initiative of US President Donald Trump, into the Gaza Strip.

The decision was unanimous except for National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who voted against it.

An Israeli political source explained that the preliminary approval for the international stabilization force to enter Gaza is part of Trump’s twenty-point plan, which led to the release of all hostages.

The source emphasized that Israel remains committed to the principle of maintaining Israeli military control up to the yellow line and will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed and the Gaza Strip is completely demilitarized.

The source added that the current phase involves around 200 representatives from friendly countries such as Uganda and Morocco.

The cabinet also approved granting the international stabilization force immunity under the Law on Immunities of International Organizations, provided it operates in full coordination with the Israeli military in areas outside the yellow line and in areas not under military control.

The source clarified that the entry of any force will require personal approval from the prime minister, the defense minister and the foreign minister.

The cabinet decided that Israel will determine which countries may send forces to the area, limiting participation to nations with peace agreements with Israel and excluding those engaged in actions against Israel or its officials in international forums.