Nexus Europa — Aug 24, 2026, 05:30 AM UTC

Netanyahu rejects US-backed Gaza peace plan and rules out military withdrawal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point US-backed peace plan for Gaza, insisting Israeli troops will not withdraw until Hamas disarms.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has formally dismissed a US-backed 15-point peace initiative for Gaza, reiterating that Israeli forces will not pull out until Hamas is completely disarmed.

Addressing his cabinet in televised remarks, Netanyahu firmly rejected the framework, which Hamas had endorsed following diplomatic efforts promoted by US President Donald Trump. He affirmed that the Israeli military "will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed and will continue to thwart threats against our forces."

The refusal highlights mounting friction between Tel Aviv and Washington, despite reports that Israeli military operations have slowed under American pressure. Netanyahu faces intense domestic balancing ahead of national elections scheduled for October 27, weighing demands from far-right coalition partners against pressure from the United States.

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

US imposes 50 percent tariffs on Canadian imports after talks collapse

The US has enacted 50 percent import tariffs on Canadian goods following the breakdown of bilateral trade talks, prompting Canada to promise reciprocal measures.

The United States has implemented 50 percent tariffs on a wide range of Canadian imports after bilateral trade negotiations collapsed without an agreement. The measures took effect overnight following the expiration of a deadline set by the Trump administration, affecting an estimated $20 billion to $28 billion in trade, including goods previously protected under regional free trade accords.

In response, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney halted ongoing discussions and pledged reciprocal retaliatory duties of equal financial value to shield domestic industries and workers. Both governments have assigned responsibility to each other for the breakdown in dialogue, marking a significant escalation in economic friction between the neighbouring allies.

Sources: Der Spiegel, NOS (Nederlandse Omroep Stichting), NRC, ORF, Tagesschau.