Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pushing back against international pressure over Gaza’s future governance while warning of escalating threats from Iran and pointing to Hamas’s continued non-compliance with President Trump’s 20-Point Peace Plan.
Netanyahu Calls Rubio Over Turkey and Qatar
Netanyahu recently called U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to express strong opposition to the inclusion of Turkey and Qatar on the executive board of the U.S.-backed Board of Peace, according to Israeli officials. Netanyahu said Israel was not consulted and warned that both countries have maintained ties with Hamas.
(Times of Israel)
Israeli officials argue that allowing Turkey and Qatar to influence Gaza’s post-war governance risks undermining security and legitimizing actors hostile to Israel.
(Times of Israel)
No Turkish or Qatari Forces in Gaza
Netanyahu later stated that Turkish and Qatari forces would not be allowed to enter Gaza, acknowledging that the dispute led to a heated exchange with U.S. officials. Israel maintains that any international framework lacking firm security guarantees is unacceptable.
(Times of Israel)
The Board of Peace initiative has also faced resistance beyond Israel, with reports of weakening European support and disagreements over enforcement mechanisms.
(i24News)
Hamas Not Complying With Peace Plan Conditions
Israeli officials emphasize that progress toward Gaza reconstruction remains stalled because Hamas has not met key requirements under President Trump’s 20-Point Peace Plan.
According to Israeli media, Hamas has neither disarmed nor returned the body of the final deceased Israeli hostage, Ran Gvili, steps viewed by Israel as mandatory prerequisites for political or reconstruction efforts.
(Jerusalem Post)
Israel has repeatedly stated that no legitimate governance process can move forward while Hamas remains armed and hostage-related obligations remain unresolved.
(Jerusalem Post)
Iran Threatens as Internal Unrest Continues
Beyond Gaza, Israel is closely monitoring developments in Iran, where the regime is facing the largest protests in its history. Iranian authorities imposed widespread internet restrictions after state television was hacked and have struggled to contain unrest.
(Reuters)
Netanyahu warned that if Iran attacks Israel, the response would involve force “that Iran has not yet known.”
(Times of Israel)
International reports indicate thousands of deaths linked to Iran’s crackdown on protesters, with Iranian officials blaming foreign influence and internal dissent.
(Associated Press; The Gateway Pundit; Israel Hayom)
Regional Diplomacy Adds Complexity
Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has called for diplomacy with Iran while praising ceasefire efforts in Syria, highlighting Ankara’s expanding regional role. Israeli officials say these positions reinforce concerns about Turkey’s involvement in Gaza governance.
(Times of Israel)
A Volatile and Uncertain Path Forward
The convergence of Gaza governance disputes, Hamas’s continued violations, and Iran’s instability has created a volatile regional environment. Israeli officials say peace initiatives cannot advance without enforcement, accountability, and clear security guarantees.
As diplomatic discussions continue, Israel has reiterated its position that peace requires disarmament, compliance with agreed conditions, and the resolution of outstanding hostage case.
Blessors of Israel believes the safety and security of Israel and her people is under siege and, therefore, must be guaranteed. Please join Blessors of Israel in praying for Israel, her people, along with the courageous citizens of Iran who desire freedom, and the leaders of the United States.
Dr. Matthew Dodd, Executive Director | January 19, 2026