Trump and Netanyahu Split Over Gaza Disarmament Deal
A rift opened between President Trump and Israel’s prime minister over the Gaza disarmament deal Mr Trump has championed, as Benjamin Netanyahu signalled his opposition to the framework. Mr Trump insisted Israel was “very happy” with the plan for Hamas to give up its weapons, a claim at odds with Mr Netanyahu’s public stance. Hamas’s own agreement to disarm remains unconfirmed.
The apparent split laid bare the obstacles to Mr Trump’s claimed breakthrough, which would require Israel to withdraw its forces in stages in return for Hamas surrendering its arms. Mr Netanyahu, under pressure from hardliners in his coalition, has insisted on full demilitarisation before any pullout and rejects a timetable negotiated over his head. Washington has warned him against obstructing the plan, but has little obvious leverage to force his hand. Israeli strikes on Gaza have continued throughout the diplomacy. Watch whether Mr Trump can bring his ally into line, or the deal stalls.