Jerusalem, 27 October (H.S.): In a forceful declaration on Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted Israel’s unilateral authority over its security policy in Gaza, pointedly pushing back against perceptions of American influence in the region.
During a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would respond to attacks at its own discretion and would exclusively determine which international forces are permitted to monitor the delicate ceasefire in the enclave.
Israel is an independent state, Netanyahu stated. I want to make one thing clear — it is our own security policy. We are not prepared to tolerate attacks against us, we respond according to our own discretion.
The Prime Minister’s comments came in the wake of a series of high-profile visits from American dignitaries, including Vice President JD Vance, President Trump’s Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner. The diplomatic flurry followed a ceasefire agreement that took effect on October 10.
While U.S. officials aimed to reassure the Israeli government of a partnership, with Vance stating, We don’t want a vassal state, Netanyahu’s remarks underscored a clear boundary.A significant point of contention revolves around the establishment of a planned international security force for Gaza.
President Trump has indicated that several U.S. allies in the Middle East are prepared to contribute a heavy force. However, the specifics of this force remain undefined, and Netanyahu has already voiced very strong opinions against the potential inclusion of certain nations, appearing to reject any Turkish involvement.
The situation remains tense, with recent flashes of violence, including Israeli airstrikes following alleged attacks by Hamas, threatening to unravel the ceasefire. Disputes over the return of hostage bodies and access for humanitarian aid continue to fuel the conflict.
Netanyahu’s declaration serves as a firm message that while the U.S. is a key ally, Israel will retain ultimate control over its own security matters.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
