Israel Rejects Early Gaza Withdrawal, Turkey Slams Netanyahu After Fresh Airstrikes

Israel has conveyed "serious security concerns" to the White House over the US brokered Hamas disarmament agreement, insisting it will not withdraw troops from Gaza until the militant group fully surrenders its weapons. The development comes as Turkey sharply condemned Israel's latest strikes on Gaza, accusing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of pursuing an "expansionist approach" after fresh attacks reportedly killed at least 17 Palestinians, including civilians.

Israeli Prime Minister's Office spokesperson Doron Spielman told the Associated Press that Israel believes Hamas remains committed to rebuilding its military capabilities despite agreeing in principle to disarm under President Donald Trump's ceasefire initiative.

"Our assessment is that if we redeploy before Hamas is truly disarmed, it will quickly rebuild its terrorist infrastructure and once again threaten Israeli communities," Spielman said, warning against another October 7 style attack.

Trump's 20 point peace framework envisages Hamas surrendering its weapons, dismantling tunnels and military infrastructure, a phased Israeli military withdrawal, deployment of an international security force, formation of a technocratic Palestinian administration, and reconstruction of Gaza. The agreement states that weapons held by the Hamas-run police would eventually be transferred to the US backed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, while heavy weapons, tunnels and military production sites would be dismantled in later phases.

Despite the ceasefire agreement, Israel has continued airstrikes across Gaza, saying it is targeting Hamas operatives. Palestinian health officials reported that overnight strikes killed at least 17 people, including children. Israel said the operations targeted Hamas militants but provided no further details.

Meanwhile, Turkey condemned the latest attacks, saying Netanyahu's government was pursuing an expansionist policy that threatened regional peace and undermined diplomatic efforts. Ankara urged the international community to act to halt the violence and revive negotiations toward a two state solution.

Israel is also reportedly seeking operational guarantees, including freedom to conduct military operations inside Gaza if it determines Hamas is rearming.