Netanyahu Rejects US-Backed Gaza Peace Plan and Vows Continued Military Presence
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally rejected a 15-point US-backed peace plan for Gaza.
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ABC News (AU)
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formally rejected a 15-point US-backed peace plan for Gaza. He stated that military forces will remain in the territory until Hamas is fully disarmed. This stance contradicts earlier claims by President Donald Trump that Israel supported the deal. Israel expanded its control of Gaza from 50 percent to 60 percent since the ceasefire. Palestinian health authorities reported 1,200 deaths since the October 2025 truce. Netanyahu also reiterated his opposition to a Palestinian state.
Context
Multiple diplomatic efforts failed to resolve the conflict in Gaza. Tensions remain high after the October 2025 ceasefire. Israel continues to control a significant portion of the territory.
Supportive perspectives
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that Hamas must disarm before Israeli forces withdraw from the Gaza Strip.
The Israeli government says continued military presence is needed to prevent further attacks.
Netanyahu said Israel is discussing its concerns about the plan with the White House.
Netanyahu stated his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. He characterized the creation of such a state as a security risk.
Critical perspectives
Hamas official Basem Naim alleged that Israel is obstructing the peace process to serve internal political and electoral interests.
Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti said he expected the rejection. He cited a record of Israel violating past agreements.
Palestinian health authorities reported over 1,200 deaths from Israeli strikes since the truce in October 2025.
Israel blocked the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza from entering the territory to begin governance. The US backs this technocratic organization.
Hamas stated it will disarm only if Israel halts daily attacks. The group also demands an Israeli withdrawal from large areas of the Gaza Strip. Israel has not confirmed it will meet these conditions.
Sources verified by Neutral
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