U.S. Reportedly Delays Gaza Disarmament Push Until After Israeli Election

Three diplomats from mediating countries said Washington is resigned to waiting until after Israel’s October 27 Knesset election before renewing its push to disarm Hamas in Gaza. The delay reflects Israeli opposition to a Board of Peace plan that would pair verified weapons decommissioning in each area with an Israeli withdrawal there, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists Gaza must be fully disarmed before Israel leaves the Yellow Line. Hamas told mediators it would not surrender weapons while Israeli operations continue. Talks on a multinational force also remain without a deployment timetable as required Israeli approvals are outstanding.