Israel rejects US peace plan as Netanyahu demands Hamas disarm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a 15-point Gaza peace initiative proposed by the United States, insisting that military forces will not pull out of the enclave until Hamas is fully disarmed.

Addressing his cabinet in televised remarks, Netanyahu stated that Israel "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed" and vowed to continue countering operational threats. The rejection highlights a growing disagreement with US President Donald Trump, whose administration had presented the framework as a breakthrough following its acceptance by Hamas in late July.

Although major military offensives in Gaza have largely paused due to diplomatic pressure from Washington, Netanyahu remains under intense domestic political pressure. Balancing demands from far-right coalition partners against US expectations, the prime minister is preparing for national elections scheduled for October 27.

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