Israel rejects US peace initiative for Gaza until Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a 15-point Gaza peace initiative endorsed by the United States, insisting that military forces will remain in the territory.

Speaking to his cabinet, Netanyahu declared that Israel "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed" and vowed to counter ongoing security threats. The statement formalises a public rift with US President Donald Trump, who had recently presented the proposal via his administration's peace board.

Although offensive military actions in Gaza have paused following Washington's intervention, Netanyahu remains under heavy political pressure. With national elections set for 27 October, the prime minister is managing tensions between US diplomatic expectations and demands from far-right coalition members who oppose territorial concessions.

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