Israel rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan, demanding Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has explicitly rejected a 15-point Gaza peace framework proposed by US President Donald Trump, declaring that Israeli forces will not pull out from the territory until Hamas completely disarms. Speaking in televised remarks to his cabinet, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed" and vowed to continue counteracting security threats.

The rejection comes despite Israeli military operations in Gaza slowing down recently following pressure from Washington. The initiative, which was endorsed by Hamas in late July, has highlighted growing diplomatic tension between Jerusalem and Washington. Netanyahu faces significant internal political pressures as he prepares for an October 27 general election, navigating demands from far-right coalition partners while trying to preserve relations with the US administration.

Sources: Cyprus Mail, France24, STV News, The Guardian, The Herald.