Israel rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan, insisting Hamas must disarm first

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point Gaza peace proposal backed by US President Donald Trump, insisting that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the enclave until Hamas is completely disarmed.

Addressing his cabinet in televised remarks, Netanyahu confirmed that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" and declared that military forces "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed." The decision highlights growing diplomatic friction between Jerusalem and Washington, even as Israeli military strikes in Gaza have paused under American pressure. The announcement comes ahead of Israel's October 27 national election, with Netanyahu balancing demands from far-right coalition partners against ties with Washington.

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