Israel’s demands for the future of Gaza are clear: Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants a full veto on the international peace force and Hamas completely out of power. This comes as the Trump-brokered truce shows signs of strain.
Netanyahu stated Sunday that “Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us,” a position he says the US supports. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed this, stating the force must be “comfortable” for Israel and must exclude Hamas.
Netanyahu has already signaled this veto would be used to block Turkish participation.
The truce is being tested by violence and disputes. An Israeli strike on the Nuseirat camp was called a “clear violation” by Hamas.
Furthermore, the slow return of Israeli hostage remains has prompted a public warning from Donald Trump. Hamas has returned 18 remains, blaming recovery difficulties.