Netanyahu rejects Gaza plan in new break from Trump
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday rejected a US-led Gaza plan endorsed by Hamas, putting distance between himself and President Donald Trump as he tries to shore up his base ahead of close elections. After more than a week of gradually escalating criticism of the plan, and despite receiving assurances that Israel would not need to start withdrawing in Gaza immediately, Netanyahu…
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vehemently rejected a US-led Gaza plan endorsed by Hamas, distancing himself from President Donald Trump as he seeks support ahead of October 27 elections. After weeks of escalating criticism, Netanyahu explicitly opposed the 15-point document, stating that Israel would not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas is disarmed and threats against its forces and citizens cease.
While Trump hailed the deal as a peace milestone, Netanyahu described him as "our greatest friend in the White House" but made clear Israel would challenge it. The plan, which requires Israel to pull out forces in tandem with Hamas's disarmament, was rejected by Netanyahu, who insisted on "real" disarmament. Egypt called for all sides to honor their commitments, urging restraint.
Despite Netanyahu's stance, Israel has decreased operations in Gaza but not halted them completely, resulting in 1,258 Palestinian casualties since the ceasefire began. Hamas, however, remains committed to the plan.
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