Israeli prime minister convenes security cabinet in Jerusalem

ISTANBUL

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened his security cabinet late Thursday in Jerusalem, his office announced on social media.

The meeting came amid growing concerns in Israel over the possibility of renewed military action in Lebanon and continued uncertainty surrounding efforts to disarm the Palestinian group Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah group in Lebanon, according to Israeli media reports.

Outgoing Mossad chief David Barnea attended the session alongside his designated successor, Military Secretary Maj. Gen. Roman Gofman, as well as interim Shin Bet director Gil Reich, local outlets said.

Netanyahu is also expected to meet later this month with US President Donald Trump, who has been urging Israel to advance to the second phase of his Gaza plan.

The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect in Gaza on Oct. 10 under Trump’s plan, halting over two years of Israeli attacks that have killed more than 70,000 people, mostly women and children, and injured nearly 171,000 others since October 2023.

Phase one of the deal includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The plan also envisages the rebuilding of Gaza and the establishment of a new governing mechanism without Hamas.