Israel rejects US peace plan as Netanyahu demands Hamas disarm

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly rejected a 15-point Gaza peace proposal endorsed by US President Donald Trump, reiterating that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed.

In televised remarks to his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu directly addressed the US-backed initiative, declaring that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" and emphasizing that the military will "continue to thwart threats against our forces." The refusal marks a visible rift with Washington, even as Israeli military operations in Gaza have effectively paused following American diplomatic pressure.

Netanyahu's stance comes ahead of Israel's national election on October 27. The prime minister is managing competing pressures, attempting to retain far-right coalition support while navigating relations with Washington.

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