The U.S. administration has not demanded that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly support the Gaza peace plan due to upcoming elections, according to a Politico report dated August 12.
The report states Washington understands the challenges Netanyahu faces in Israel’s election campaign and will provide him space to address them. American officials believe Netanyahu must consider his right-wing allies’ positions to secure re-election. Consequently, the administration is prepared to tolerate his public rejection of the plan if Israel takes steps to implement it.
Additionally, the United States expects Israel to halt targeted killings and advance negotiations toward the next phase. Officials also note signs that Israel may be preparing for a potential withdrawal from Gaza.
On August 9, Barak Ravid, a correspondent for Channel 12 in Israel, reported that the White House does not view Netanyahu’s refusal to comply with the Gaza plan as a policy issue but rather as part of his election campaign. That same day, Netanyahu announced Israel’s rejection of the Gaza Peace Council’s 15-point plan and stated troops would remain in Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed. He also mentioned discussing concerns with the United States.
The situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with actual casualty figures significantly exceeding official reports despite Israeli forces maintaining a presence in the territory.
