The UN Security Council is set to vote on a United States-backed draft supporting the Gaza peace plan on Monday, while Israel reaffirmed its opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state on Sunday.
Hamas later condemned Israel's opposition, saying it revealed Israel's "expansionist tendencies."
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu restated the position at the start of the weekly cabinet meeting. "Our opposition to a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River stands firm and has not changed in the slightest," he said.
Netanyahu said the U.S. plan calls for a demilitarized Gaza and the dismantling of Hamas's military capabilities. "Hamas will be stripped of its weapons, either the easy way or the hard way," he said, adding that U.S. President Donald Trump shares this view. Israeli media reported that the draft resolution, backed by the U.S. and several Islamic countries, focuses on the second phase of Washington's 20-point peace plan for a Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction. It seeks the Security Council's authorization to set up a transitional administration in Gaza, along with an international monitoring body and an "International Stabilization Force."
The draft notes that a reformed Palestinian Authority could pave the way toward Palestinian statehood -- language that has drawn vocal opposition from Israel's far-right politicians and increased pressure on Netanyahu. Israeli media said Israel is lobbying the U.S. and others to soften or amend the relevant clauses.
Since the first-phase ceasefire took effect on Oct. 10, Israel has repeatedly carried out strikes, accusing Hamas of violating the agreement, and has indefinitely delayed reopening the Rafah crossing, which is vital for humanitarian aid.
Hamas has denied the accusations.
Whether and when Israel and Hamas will enter second-phase ceasefire talks remains uncertain.
Israel rebuffs Palestine statehood as UN set to vote on Gaza plan
