Netanyahu rejects US Gaza plan, demands Hamas disarmament

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point plan proposed by the US for the Gaza Strip, declaring that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will not withdraw until Hamas is "truly" disarmed. Speaking at a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu stated, "Israel rejects the 15-point document. The IDF will not withdraw until Hamas is truly disarmed, and will continue to counter the threat to our forces and citizens." He also reaffirmed Israel's determination to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, regardless of diplomatic negotiations. "I want to emphasize again: whether an agreement is reached or not, as long as I am prime minister, Iran will not have nuclear weapons," Netanyahu asserted. The US-established Peace Council had presented the plan in late July, outlining steps for a Gaza ceasefire, including the disarmament of Hamas and a gradual Israeli withdrawal. Hamas had expressed agreement with the plan, but Israel had not yet issued an official response. The plan proposed an end to military actions by Israel, Hamas, and other Palestinian groups, with a timeline for implementation to be developed within 14 days of approval. This initiative was part of a broader US-led ceasefire plan announced last October. The plan suggested Hamas would hand over weapons to a newly formed Palestinian governing body. However, Israel categorically rejected the idea of withdrawing its forces concurrently with Hamas's disarmament, insisting the group must destroy its own weapons. Recent reports indicate the Peace Council has shifted its stance, stating Israel would only withdraw after "complete" disarmament. Netanyahu, facing political challenges, is reportedly under pressure from his far-right allies to reject the Gaza plan. He indicated that Israel has discussed its objections with the United States, stating, "They have ideas; some are acceptable to us, and some are not. We know how to defend our position on these issues." Netanyahu insisted on "real, not fictitious" disarmament by Hamas, a goal some Peace Council members deem potentially unattainable.

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Israel rejects the 15-point document. The IDF will not withdraw until Hamas is truly disarmed, and will continue to counter the threat to our forces and citizens.