According to sources from Egypt and the region, Israel has informed the Arab States to create a buffer zone on the Palestinian side of Gaza's border to deter potential future attacks, as part of its post-war proposals for the enclave. The disclosure of these plans was made to neighboring countries, including Egypt and Jordan, as well as the United Arab Emirates, which established diplomatic relations with Israel in 2020.

In addition to Egypt, Jordan, and the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia has been informed of Israel's plans to establish a buffer zone on the Palestinian side of Gaza's border. However, strained relations between Saudi Arabia and Israel, with the latter pausing a U.S.-mediated normalization process following the escalation of the Gaza war on October 7.

Notably, Saudi Arabia, without official diplomatic ties with Israel, reportedly received the information, although the sources did not elaborate on the specific communication channels. Furthermore, Turkey, a non-Arab nation, has also been appraised of Israel's proposals.

Israel's move to convey its desire for a buffer zone on the Palestinian side of Gaza's border does not suggest an imminent conclusion to its ongoing offensive, which resumed after a seven-day truce. However, it signifies Israel's outreach beyond traditional Arab mediators like Egypt or Qatar. This outreach is part of Israel's efforts to influence the post-war landscape in Gaza.

"Israel wants this buffer zone between Gaza and Israel from the north to the south to prevent any Hamas or other militants from infiltrating or attacking Israel," said a senior regional security official, one of the three regional sources who asked not to be identified by nationality.

Arab states have not responded to inquiries about Israel's proposed buffer zone in Gaza. The UAE stated it would support post-war arrangements agreed upon by all parties for stability and a Palestinian state. According to Ophir Falk, Israel's plan involves a three-tier process for the aftermath of Hamas, including destroying Hamas, demilitarizing Gaza, and de-radicalizing the enclave.

The specifics of these plans and whether they were discussed with international partners, including Arab states, remain undisclosed. Arab states have rejected Israel's goal of eliminating Hamas, viewing it as more than a mere militant force.

Israel suggested the possibility of a buffer zone inside Gaza as part of its future security plans, according to sources. The idea has been presented to Arab states, raising concerns and opposition from the U.S. The proposed buffer zone is being examined, and its depth is yet to be determined, with the intention of preventing security threats from Hamas close to the border. However, there are fears that such a move could further constrain Gaza's already limited space and trigger opposition from neighboring Arab states.

Israel has reportedly proposed disarming northern Gaza and establishing a buffer zone with international supervision in mediation talks with Egypt and Qatar. Some Arab states oppose this, citing disagreement over the zone's location.

Israel has suggested trying Hamas leaders internationally for a full ceasefire, but this issue has been postponed in ongoing talks. Israel's post-war plan may include deporting Hamas leaders, similar to past actions in Lebanon. However, critics view the buffer zone plan as unrealistic and potentially risky for Israeli forces.

Image source: Reuters