Netanyahu reiterates rejection of US Gaza peace proposal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally reiterated Israel's rejection of a US-backed 15-point Gaza peace proposal, insisting that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the enclave until Hamas fully disarms.

Speaking to his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu stated that Israel "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed" and confirmed the refusal of the document previously accepted by Hamas. The stance creates a public rift with US President Donald Trump, whose administration presented the plan as a major diplomatic step forward.

Although active offensive operations by Israeli forces in Gaza have diminished following Washington's intervention, Netanyahu faces internal political pressure ahead of Israel's national election on October 27. He remains caught between far-right cabinet members opposing concessions and demands from Washington for progress towards a permanent ceasefire.

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