Israel 'rejects' the US ceasefire plan for Gaza accepted by Hamas

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point proposal and refused to withdraw Israeli military forces from the Gaza Strip until Hamas fully disarms. Netanyahu stated, "Israel rejects the 15-point document," emphasizing that the Israeli military would not withdraw until Hamas undergoes "real, not fictitious" disarmament, including the removal of all heavy and light weapons.

He added that discussions on the matter were ongoing with the US, noting that some American proposals were acceptable while others were not. Netanyahu also reiterated Israel's stance against Iran obtaining nuclear weapons and that Israeli forces would continue operations against threats in Lebanon. The Prime Minister further expressed his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, stating that "neither Fatahstan nor Hamastan" would be established under his leadership.

This categorical denial comes after anonymous comments from senior Israeli sources indicating that the arrangement was unacceptable. Israel's actions in the Gaza Strip, which have resulted in deadly strikes, have drawn criticism from top Board of Peace diplomat Nickolay Mladenov, although no mention of Israel was made. Mladenov met with Netanyahu in Jerusalem, describing the process as "the start of the hard phase" and "slow, grinding and technical work."

Netanyahu's strong rejection of the proposal could lead to a clash with US President Donald Trump, who has long advocated for a peace deal and reconstruction for Gaza. This comes after months of talks between the Board of Peace, Hamas, and mediator countries on disarmament, which is considered one of the most challenging topics in negotiations.

Israel was not involved in these talks. Netanyahu's rejection adds complexity to the negotiations, as his ultranationalist government continues to resist any withdrawal and supports the establishment of Israeli settlements in Gaza. The Prime Minister is also navigating an election campaign and is concerned that concessions on Gaza might upset his base.

Hamas fears losing influence in the talks and its status as a militant organization if it relinquishes its weapons without achieving significant gains.