Netanyahu rejects US-backed Gaza peace framework demanding Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has explicitly rejected a US-backed 15-point peace framework for Gaza previously touted by President Donald Trump.

Speaking during televised remarks to his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu declared that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" and affirmed that military forces "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed." The statement formalises a public break with Washington, which had recently announced progress following Hamas's endorsement of the framework in late July.

Despite Netanyahu's refusal to accept the proposal, Israeli offensive operations in Gaza remain largely suspended under pressure from the White House. The decision comes as Netanyahu prepares for a general election on October 27, navigating internal friction between far-right coalition partners opposed to concessions and the strategic necessity of maintaining American backing.

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