Netanyahu reiterates refusal to withdraw from Gaza without Hamas disarmament

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a US-supported 15-point peace proposal for Gaza, declaring that Israeli armed forces will not leave the enclave without the complete disarmament of Hamas.

Addressing his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu directly dismissed the framework recently endorsed by Hamas and promoted by US President Donald Trump. He stated that the military "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed and will continue to thwart threats against our forces."

The stance highlights visible friction between Israel and Washington, even as Israeli combat operations have reportedly slowed following American diplomacy. Netanyahu faces complex political dynamics, balancing the demands of right-wing coalition partners ahead of elections scheduled for 27 October against ongoing strategic coordination with the United States.

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