Netanyahu Asserts Veto Power Over Gaza Peace Force Troops

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared his nation’s sole authority to approve foreign troops for a proposed Gaza peacekeeping force. The announcement was made during a cabinet meeting in Jerusalem. This stance comes just days after a truce, brokered by former US President Donald Trump, took effect in the region.

The declaration underscores Israel’s firm control over its security decisions. According to Reuters, Netanyahu stated this position is acceptable to the United States.

Israel’s Firm Stance on International Involvement

Netanyahu explicitly stated Israel will decide which countries are unacceptable for the force. He emphasized that Israel is in control of its own security. This position directly impacts the composition of the planned international presence in Gaza.

The Prime Minister has already signaled opposition to Turkish involvement. Relations with Turkey have been severely strained throughout the conflict. Other potential contributors being discussed include Egypt, Indonesia, and Gulf Arab nations.

The United States has ruled out sending its own soldiers into Gaza. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio supported Israel’s right to approve force members. He confirmed discussions are underway for a UN resolution to authorize the multinational group.

Fragile Truce Faces Immediate Challenges

The ceasefire agreement hinges on the return of all Israeli hostage remains. Hamas has so far returned the remains of 18 hostages. In exchange, Israel has returned 195 Palestinian bodies.

Former President Trump publicly pressured Hamas to accelerate the process. He gave a 48-hour warning for more bodies to be returned. Hamas claims the recovery effort is hampered by widespread destruction and buried rubble.

Ongoing Tensions Threaten Stability

Despite the truce, Israeli forces conducted a strike in the central Nuseirat refugee camp. The military stated it targeted militants from Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The militant group denied planning any attacks.

Hamas condemned the strike as a clear violation of the ceasefire. They accused Netanyahu of undermining the peace efforts led by Trump. This incident highlights the fragile nature of the current calm.

The situation remains tense as diplomatic efforts continue. Israel’s firm control over the proposed Gaza peace force composition is a critical development. The path to a lasting agreement depends on navigating these complex security demands.

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What is the main goal of the proposed international force in Gaza?

The force aims to maintain stability and security in Gaza following the ceasefire. Its role would be to prevent a resurgence of hostilities and support post-conflict governance. The exact mandate is still under discussion.

Which countries might be part of the Gaza peacekeeping force?

Potential contributors include Egypt, Indonesia, and several Gulf Arab nations. The United States will not send troops. Israel has explicitly opposed the involvement of Turkey in the force.

How many hostages and bodies have been exchanged so far?

Hamas has returned the remains of 18 Israeli hostages. In return, Israel has handed back 195 Palestinian bodies. The exchange is a key part of the current truce agreement.

What was the recent Israeli strike in Gaza about?

Israel struck the Nuseirat refugee camp, targeting what it said were Islamic Jihad militants. The strike occurred after the ceasefire began. Hamas called it a violation of the truce.

Why is the recovery of hostage remains taking time?

Hamas officials state that extensive destruction in Gaza has buried many bodies deep under rubble. This makes locating and retrieving the remains a slow and difficult process. They are using heavy machinery to aid the search.

Trusted Sources

Reuters
Associated Press