Israel rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan until Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a 15-point Gaza peace proposal endorsed by US President Donald Trump, declaring that Israeli forces "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed." In televised remarks to his cabinet, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel must continue counteracting threats to its forces, despite Hamas accepting the framework in late July.

The refusal highlights growing diplomatic friction between Washington and Jerusalem, even as Israeli strikes in Gaza have reportedly slowed following US pressure. The political stance comes as Netanyahu navigates domestic pressure within his governing coalition ahead of Israel's national election scheduled for 27 October.

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