Overview
- Netanyahu reaffirmed that Hamas must fully disarm and the Gaza Strip be demilitarized before any reconstruction proceeds.
- He stated the Palestinian Authority will not administer Gaza, calling the position non-negotiable.
- Netanyahu cautioned Witkoff that Iran’s promises cannot be relied upon as the U.S. prepares diplomatic engagement.
- Israeli officials briefed the envoy on allegations that UNRWA-branded aid bags were used to conceal weapons, framing the claim as evidence of aid abuse.
- The meeting aligned with the second phase of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire framework linking Israeli withdrawals and rebuilding to demilitarization, and Witkoff is planning Istanbul talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi after meetings with Israel Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir.