Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has strongly objected to any Turkish or Qatari presence in Gaza under the proposed postwar peace plan, calling it a “red line” that Israel will not cross, according to reports by Israel Hayom.
The move has raised concerns in Washington, where officials are working to ensure Israel does not derail the U.S.-backed deal with Hamas aimed at stabilizing Gaza once the ongoing conflict ends.
Dispute over humanitarian role
According to U.S. officials, the proposed role of Türkiye and Qatar would be strictly humanitarian and civilian, focusing on aid distribution, reconstruction, and civil administration support in coordination with international organizations.
However, Netanyahu and senior Israeli officials fear that Ankara and Doha’s involvement could translate into political influence in Gaza, potentially strengthening Hamas-linked networks and undermining Israel’s security interests.
“Jerusalem views any Turkish or Qatari presence as a direct threat to Israeli sovereignty and regional stability,” an Israeli source told Israel Hayom, adding that Netanyahu had made his opposition clear during recent high-level discussions.
White House concerned over breakdown
The White House is reportedly worried that Netanyahu’s firm stance could complicate ongoing negotiations and risk fracturing coordination between the U.S. and Israel.
Washington considers Türkiye and Qatar—both of which have maintained communication channels with Hamas—essential intermediaries in facilitating the ceasefire, humanitarian access, and potential post-conflict governance arrangements.
State Department officials have reiterated that their involvement would be “limited, civilian, and temporary.”
