Netanyahu rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan, demanding Hamas disarm first

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally dismissed a 15-point Gaza peace initiative endorsed by US President Donald Trump, declaring that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the enclave without the complete disarmament of Hamas.

Addressing his cabinet, Netanyahu 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 a public diplomatic rift with Washington, which had recently announced progress toward a regional settlement.

The rejection comes amid domestic political tensions as Netanyahu campaigns ahead of an election scheduled for late October. The prime minister remains caught between hardline coalition ministers opposing concessions in Gaza and pressure from the White House to secure an enduring ceasefire.

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