Overview
- Defense Minister Israel Katz said Israel will never fully withdraw from Gaza and intends to establish a substantial internal security zone, with possible settlement cores in the north.
- Katz’s stance contradicts the US plan, which foresees a phased Israeli pullback and an international stabilization force, while allowing only a perimeter security presence for Israel.
- German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Germany will not, for the foreseeable future, contribute troops to any stabilization mission and sees no role at present in training or organization.
- Berlin remains willing to engage in political mechanisms envisioned by a UN Security Council resolution and to support reconstruction, though it has not received a formal invitation to a peace council.
- Hamas rejects disarmament required for phase two, Wadephul urged a prompt start despite a lengthy process, warned against a lasting split in Gaza, and criticized plans to approve 19 new West Bank settlements as undermining a two-state prospect.