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US aims for international Gaza force deployment early next year, say US officials

US aims for international Gaza force deployment early next year, say US officials

By Steve Holland and Michelle Nichols WASHINGTON/UNITED NATIONS, Dec 12 (Reuters) - International troops could be deployed in the Gaza Strip as early as next month to form a U.N.-authorized stabilization force, two U.S. officials told Reuters, but it remains unclear how Palestinian militants Hamas
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U.S. Urges Israel to Clear Gaza Rubble Amid Ceasefire Reconstruction Efforts

U.S. Urges Israel to Clear Gaza Rubble Amid Ceasefire Reconstruction Efforts

The United States is urging Israel to take responsibility for clearing the extensive destruction in the Gaza Strip, a result of two years of conflict. This initiative is part of the second phase of a ceasefire agreement aimed at rebuilding Gaza. The United Nations estimates that Gaza is covered with approximately 68 million tons of rubble, equivalent to the weight of 186 Empire State Buildings. The U.S. has proposed deploying an international stabilization force in Gaza by early 2026, with Indonesia and Azerbaijan showing interest in contributing troops. The U.S. is also pressing Israel to begin reconstruction efforts in Rafah, a move intended to attract displaced residents back to the area. However, Israel has stipulated that it will not proceed with the next phase of the ceasefire until the body of hostage Ran Gvili is returned.
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Gaza Peace Plan Stalled as Israel and Hamas Face Difficult Concessions

Gaza Peace Plan Stalled as Israel and Hamas Face Difficult Concessions

The implementation of President Trump's Gaza peace plan is facing significant delays as both Israel and Hamas grapple with challenging concessions. The ceasefire, now two months old, has left Gaza divided and its population displaced, with many living in makeshift shelters amid harsh weather conditions. The next phase of the peace plan, which involves disarming Hamas and establishing a new governance structure, is stalled due to the unresolved issue of a missing Israeli hostage. Israel insists on the return of all hostages before proceeding, while Hamas is accused of using the hostage situation as leverage. The international community, led by the U.S., is pushing for progress, but both sides remain hesitant.
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Trump's Gaza Peace Plan Faces Challenges Amid Hostage and Reconstruction Issues

Trump's Gaza Peace Plan Faces Challenges Amid Hostage and Reconstruction Issues

President Trump's Gaza peace plan is encountering significant obstacles as it remains in its initial phase. The plan, which aims to bring stability to the region, is stalled due to unresolved issues between Israel and Hamas. A key sticking point is the return of Israeli hostages, including Ran Gvili, who was captured during Hamas attacks. Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has made it clear that progress to the next phase of the peace deal is contingent upon the return of all hostages. Meanwhile, the Gaza Strip is grappling with severe flooding, affecting over 800,000 residents and complicating reconstruction efforts. The situation is exacerbated by political hesitations on both sides, with Hamas reluctant to relinquish control and Israel cautious about withdrawing forces without ensuring security.
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New footage shows six Israeli hostages celebrating Jewish holiday, months before they were killed

New footage shows six Israeli hostages celebrating Jewish holiday, months before they were killed

New footage shows six Israeli hostages celebrating Hanukkah while held captive in a Gaza tunnel months before they were killed
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From Israeli-held zones in Gaza, foes of Hamas seek lasting role

From Israeli-held zones in Gaza, foes of Hamas seek lasting role

Dec 10 (Reuters) - Groups operating from Israeli-held areas of Gaza say they will continue to fight Hamas despite the killing of their most prominent commander, reporting more recruits since an October ceasefire as they eye a role in the enclave's future.
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Exclusive-US weighs hitting UN Palestinian refugee agency with terrorism-related sanctions

Exclusive-US weighs hitting UN Palestinian refugee agency with terrorism-related sanctions

By Gram Slattery and Humeyra Pamuk WASHINGTON, Dec 10 (Reuters) - Trump administration officials have held advanced discussions on hitting U.N.
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Aid flow into Gaza falls short of the ceasefire terms, Israeli figures show

Aid flow into Gaza falls short of the ceasefire terms, Israeli figures show

Aid deliveries into Gaza are falling short of the amount agreed upon in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire
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Turkey Prepares to Deploy Troops to Gaza as Part of Stabilization Force Amid U.S. Pressure

Turkey Prepares to Deploy Troops to Gaza as Part of Stabilization Force Amid U.S. Pressure

Turkey has announced its readiness to deploy troops to the Gaza Strip as part of an International Stabilization Force (ISF), according to security sources. This move comes amid pressure from the United States on Israel to allow the deployment. Turkish officials have described Israel's resistance to their participation as politically motivated, emphasizing that their involvement is crucial for the ceasefire's success. The ISF is part of a broader effort to stabilize the region following the recent ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. The deployment of Turkish troops is seen as a significant step in ensuring the ceasefire's implementation and maintaining peace in the area.
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Mossad Director Nominee's Proposal for Nuclear Arms Transfer Raises Concerns

Mossad Director Nominee's Proposal for Nuclear Arms Transfer Raises Concerns

Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman, recently appointed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the next Mossad director, has sparked controversy with a past academic proposal suggesting the transfer of nuclear weapons to Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. This idea, outlined in a paper titled 'Yesterday’s Doomsday,' was part of Gofman's studies at the National Security College in 2019. The proposal envisions a strategic shift in response to Iran's nuclear advancements, suggesting that arming these Middle Eastern countries could create a new strategic balance. The paper, although hypothetical, reflects Gofman's unconventional strategic thinking, which has raised eyebrows due to its departure from traditional Israeli security doctrines.
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Turkey Prepares to Join Gaza Stabilization Force Amid U.S. Pressure on Israel

Turkey Prepares to Join Gaza Stabilization Force Amid U.S. Pressure on Israel

Turkey has announced its readiness to participate in the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, as reported by security sources. This development comes amid U.S. pressure on Israel to allow Turkish involvement. Turkish officials argue that their participation is crucial for maintaining the ceasefire in the region. They have described Israel's resistance to their involvement as politically motivated. The ISF aims to stabilize the region following ongoing conflicts, and Turkey's involvement is seen as a significant step towards achieving this goal. The situation remains tense as diplomatic negotiations continue.
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Researcher Suggests Israel Must Dismantle Hamas Independently

Researcher Suggests Israel Must Dismantle Hamas Independently

Dr. Harel Chorev, a senior researcher at the Moshe Dayan Center, has stated that Israel will likely need to dismantle Hamas on its own, as no external power appears willing to undertake this task. This perspective aligns with a broader strategy attributed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which involves allowing the U.S. to attempt various approaches before concluding that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) must take direct action. The statement reflects ongoing challenges in addressing the influence of Hamas in the Gaza Strip and the complexities of international involvement in the region.