Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly opposed any Turkish or Qatari role in Gaza under the proposed postwar peace plan. Reports from Israel Hayom suggest that Netanyahu views such involvement as a “red line” that Israel will not cross.
The stance has sparked concern in Washington, where U.S. officials are pushing to secure Israel’s cooperation in a deal with Hamas designed to stabilize Gaza once the conflict ends.
Dispute over humanitarian role
According to American officials, the proposed participation of Türkiye and Qatar would be strictly humanitarian and civilian. Their roles would focus on providing aid, supporting reconstruction, and helping with civil administration in coordination with international agencies.
However, Netanyahu and other senior Israeli officials fear that both nations’ involvement could lead to political influence in Gaza. They worry it might strengthen networks linked to Hamas and threaten Israel’s long-term security.
An Israeli source told Israel Hayom that “Jerusalem views any Turkish or Qatari presence as a direct threat to Israeli sovereignty and regional stability.” The source confirmed that Netanyahu had made his opposition clear during recent high-level talks with international partners.
U.S. concern over diplomatic strain
The White House reportedly fears that Netanyahu’s uncompromising position could hinder ongoing peace efforts and strain coordination between the United States and Israel.
Washington sees Türkiye and Qatar as crucial intermediaries because both maintain communication channels with Hamas. U.S. officials believe these countries could play a key role in facilitating a ceasefire, humanitarian access, and a framework for Gaza’s post-conflict governance.
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State Department officials clarified that any Turkish or Qatari role would be “limited, civilian, and temporary,” aimed only at aiding Gaza’s recovery rather than exerting political control.
