The US administration is pushing hard for Israel to move into Phase II of the Trump plan for the region, a step that would reportedly require the Israeli military to withdraw to the border and relinquish operational control over 54% of the Gaza Strip territory. However, Israeli diplomatic and security officials remain resolute, stating that no political or security progress will be made until the final abducted soldier, Yassam fighter Ran Guili, is recovered and returned to Israel for burial. An Israeli security source insisted that Hamas terrorists know the location where the fallen soldier is buried.
American officials are indicating that the deployment of a multinational force to help maintain stability in Gaza after the end of the war is imminent. Yet, security sources in Israel say they are unaware of any country that has committed troops and received Israeli approval. US President Donald Trump announced that he would reveal the members of the "Peace Council" that will govern the Gaza Strip in early 2026, a move Israeli security officials believe Hamas terrorists will oppose, making the prospect unlikely.
Israeli security officials clarified that the proposed multinational force would not confront Hamas terrorists or prevent their rearmament. Instead, it is intended to operate only in areas currently controlled by the Israeli military, not in Hamas-controlled territory. Israel remains firm on its demand for the complete demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the removal of Hamas from power. (Ed note: This multinational force made of of Arabs and Muslims, is a bit like letting the fox guard the henhouse. Was not the "Deal Maker" going to make Hamas disarm?) (Read More)
