Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected United States President Donald Trump’s 15-point Gaza peace plan, insisting that Israel will not withdraw its troops until Hamas is completely and genuinely disarmed.
Key Highlights
- Netanyahu rejects Trump’s 15-point Gaza peace plan.
- Israel demands complete Hamas disarmament.
- Netanyahu refuses troop withdrawal before disarmament.
- Trump’s plan includes Gaza reconstruction.
- Hamas links disarmament to Israeli withdrawal.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu declared that Israel rejected the proposal and warned that its military would continue to act against threats to Israeli forces and citizens.
Trump’s plan provides for the disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the reconstruction of the devastated territory.
Trump’s Board of Peace had earlier announced an understanding on the “complete disarmament” of Hamas and other militant groups.
However, Hamas has linked the surrender of its heavy weapons to an end to Israeli military operations and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
A Hamas official said the group remained committed to the agreement and was ready to engage seriously in implementing the 15-point plan.
The group also called on mediators to ensure that all parties honour their commitments.
Netanyahu said Israel was consulting with US officials on the way forward, noting that some of Washington’s proposals were acceptable while others were not.
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His rejection comes amid pressure from members of his right-wing coalition, who have demanded a tougher approach towards Hamas and opposed concessions under the Gaza plan.
The disagreement could further complicate Trump’s efforts to secure a lasting ceasefire and establish a framework for Gaza’s reconstruction.
The conflict began following the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and resulted in 251 others being taken hostage.
Israel responded with a military campaign in Gaza. Gaza’s health ministry says more than 73,000 people have been killed, while the United Nations estimates that about 1.9 million people—around 90 per cent of Gaza’s population—have been displaced.
