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 backed by US President Donald Trump. Speaking to his cabinet on Sunday, Netanyahu insisted that Israeli military forces will not pull out of the territory until Hamas is "genuinely disarmed."

The 15-point document, which Hamas had endorsed in late July, was intended to secure a long-term resolution. Although US diplomatic pressure has largely paused major Israeli offensive operations, Netanyahu emphasized that troops will continue to counter potential security threats against Israeli forces.

The rejection highlights growing friction between Jerusalem and Washington. Netanyahu is navigating political pressure ahead of Israel's general election scheduled for 27 October, balancing demands from far-right coalition partners against calls from the White House for diplomatic progress.

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