Israel rejects Trump’s Gaza plan, insists Hamas must disarm first

Israel has rejected the latest U.S. proposal aimed at advancing peace in Gaza, saying it will not pull its troops out until Hamas gives up its weapons. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the decision at the start of a cabinet meeting on Sunday. “Israel rejects the 15-point document,” he said. He added that the Israeli military would “not withdraw at” the expense of security. The plan, put forward by the Trump administration, was meant to move the ceasefire process to its next stage. But Israel’s position remains firm: no withdrawal from Gaza while Hamas remains armed. The rejection signals a major obstacle to the peace effort, which has struggled to gain ground since the latest round of hostilities began. There was no immediate response from Hamas or U.S. officials. Israel has long insisted that any lasting peace deal must include the full disarmament of Hamas. The group, which controls Gaza, has not agreed to such a condition. The U.S. proposal was seen as a possible bridge between the two sides, but Israel’s refusal suggests that talks may remain stalled for now.