Netanyahu’s Insolent Remarks Target Türkiye

Speaking at a special session of Israel’s parliament, Netanyahu delivered hardline statements on Gaza’s future, regional actors, and escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Dispute Over Türkiye and Qatar in Gaza Force

Addressing lawmakers at the Knesset, Netanyahu commented on the second phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan. He strongly opposed the proposed structure of the International Stability Force intended to ensure security in Gaza, arguing that Turkish and Qatari troops should be excluded.

Turkish and Qatari soldiers will not be in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Hakan Fidan’s Role Sparks Israeli Backlash

The announcement by Washington on January 17 of a Gaza Executive Board, which includes Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, caused unease in Israel. Netanyahu claimed the board contradicted Israel’s policies and was formed without consultation.

He said he instructed Foreign Minister Gideon Saar to contact U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to convey Israel’s objections. However, Israeli media reported that Netanyahu’s remarks were largely aimed at domestic audiences and that Tel Aviv had prior knowledge of the board’s composition.

Rift With Washington Over Gaza Governance

While the International Stability Force is expected to be commanded by U.S. Major General Jasper Jeffers, Netanyahu acknowledged deep disagreements with Washington over the establishment of civilian governance structures in Gaza.

Hamas will be dismantled—either the easy way or the hard way.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

He added that discussions with “friends in the United States” were ongoing, signaling Israel’s reluctance to fully transfer control on the ground to an international mechanism.

Iran Threats Renewed

Beyond Gaza, Netanyahu addressed protests and regional instability in Iran, asserting that Tehran had been weakened by economic pressure. He warned that any attack on Israel would be met with overwhelming force.

If Iran makes a mistake and attacks us, we will respond with a force Iran has never experienced.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu