Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected US President Donald Trump’s 15-point proposal for Gaza, saying Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is genuinely disarmed. The plan, drawn up by a US-led Board of Peace, called for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups, an Israeli troop withdrawal and reconstruction assistance for Gaza.
Hamas has said its own surrender of heavy weapons depends on Israel ending “all forms of aggression” and pulling its forces out of the territory. Israel, however, has continued strikes in Gaza since an initial ceasefire last October.
Speaking at a cabinet meeting, Netanyahu announced that “Israel rejects the 15-point document” and that the army “will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed,” adding that operations to counter threats against soldiers and civilians will continue.
A Hamas official told the BBC the group remains committed to the agreement and is prepared to engage seriously and responsibly in implementing the plan, urging mediators to ensure all parties honor the terms.
Israel’s decision is another setback for the peace initiative first unveiled in September. The plan established the Board of Peace to supervise implementation and envisioned a sequence of disarmament, Israeli withdrawal and Gaza reconstruction.
Observers say Netanyahu’s rejection was not unexpected. He delayed a public response, reflecting the delicate balancing act he faces: displeasure with parts of the US proposal while not wanting to alienate a close ally. Trump recently described the deal as a “monumental step” after Hamas reportedly agreed to disarm contingent on Israeli withdrawal.
Netanyahu insisted disarmament must come first and be verifiable, not a “fictitious disarmament.” He acknowledged that any real disarmament and troop withdrawal would likely need to be phased and said he is discussing options with US officials, noting some proposals are acceptable and others are not.
With Israeli elections approaching and pressure from right-wing coalition partners to adopt a hard line on Gaza, Netanyahu faces strong domestic constraints. Members of the far right, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, have called for a new cabinet vote and dismissed the draft plan as unacceptable.
