Security establishment discusses potential IDF withdrawal from several points in the Gaza Strip
Hamas remains far from disarmed, yet Israel faces significant American pressure. The multinational force intended to replace IDF soldiers is small, prompting security officials to warn that building a strategy on such a limited force is highly concerning.
In recent weeks, the political echelon has repeatedly stated that the IDF will not withdraw from the 'yellow line' in the Gaza Strip until the terrorist organization Hamas is disarmed. However, as reported in the Weekend News, the security establishment has recently discussed pinpoint withdrawals of the IDF within the Strip and the deployment of a multinational force in their place.
While the exact definition of Hamas's disarmament remains unclear, American pressure for a withdrawal is already being exerted on Israel. Discussions within the security establishment have now shifted to preparations for the possibility that such a withdrawal will be implemented.
"The number of soldiers in the multinational force is simply not enough. It is a handful of soldiers, and they are trying to build castles on the basis of this force. It is very worrying. The Americans are not leaving many choices, but they are creating a problem for us in Gaza," a source in the security establishment stated.
Former Prime Minister and Yamina Chairman Naftali Bennett criticized the move:
"Netanyahu is a captive of Qatar. The Israeli government has given up and handed over the future of Gaza and our security to others. We will fix this: we will declare Qatar an enemy state and expel it from Gaza, we will not move a millimeter from the 'yellow line' until Hamas is completely disarmed, we will rebuild Nir Oz and the Gaza envelope communities, and we will ensure protection for all border communities."
Blue and White Chairman Benny Gantz also responded:
"If there is no progress in disarming Hamas, military and political pressure must be increased. As long as Hamas has not moved, the IDF must not move, and attacks must not stop."
Currently, Morocco is expected to send the largest contingent, with approximately 500 soldiers. Negotiations are underway with Uganda for similar numbers, while other nations are expected to send only dozens of troops each—a scale far removed from the initial plan of thousands. Security officials express heavy doubt regarding the ability of such a force to play a significant role in the Strip or replace the IDF in areas slated for withdrawal. In any case, foreign forces are not expected to arrive within the next month and a half. No response has been received from the Prime Minister's Office.
