Netanyahu rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan until Hamas disarms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has explicitly rejected a 15-point Gaza peace framework championed by US President Donald Trump, reiterating that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the enclave without the complete disarmament of Hamas.

Addressing his government in televised remarks, Netanyahu stated that "Israel rejects the 15-point document" and confirmed the military "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed." The refusal comes despite an effective pause in Israeli military operations following pressure from Washington.

The stance highlights growing diplomatic friction between Israel and the United States. It also underscores domestic political pressures on Netanyahu, who faces an upcoming national election on October 27 while balancing demands from far-right coalition partners opposed to territorial concessions.

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