Netanyahu rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan until Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally rejected a 15-point peace proposal for Gaza endorsed by US President Donald Trump, insisting that Israeli forces will not pull back without the complete disarmament of Hamas.

Addressing his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu declared that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" and asserted that military units "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed." The framework had previously received approval from Hamas following Trump's announcement of a diplomatic breakthrough.

The rejection highlights growing friction between Jerusalem and Washington, even as Israeli military operations in Gaza have slowed under American diplomatic pressure. Netanyahu is currently navigating domestic political demands from far-right coalition partners ahead of national elections scheduled for October 27.

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