Netanyahu dismisses US ceasefire proposal, insists on Hamas disarmament

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point plan proposed by former US President Donald Trump for Gaza, stating that Israeli forces will not withdraw from the territory until Hamas is fully and verifiably disarmed.

Speaking to reporters in Jerusalem on Tuesday, Netanyahu said the proposal, which was floated during recent diplomatic contacts, did not meet Israel's core security demands. He emphasized that any cessation of military operations must be contingent on the complete dismantling of Hamas's military capabilities, including its rocket arsenal and tunnel network.

"We appreciate the American effort, but our position remains unchanged," Netanyahu said. "There will be no pullout from Gaza as long as Hamas retains the ability to threaten Israeli citizens. Disarmament is not a symbolic gesture—it must be genuine, monitored, and enforceable."

The 15-point plan, which has not been made

The 15-point plan, which has not been made public in full, was reportedly designed to outline a phased ceasefire and a framework for postwar governance in Gaza. Israeli officials familiar with the discussions said the plan included provisions for a temporary international presence and a gradual handover to Palestinian authorities, but lacked a clear mechanism for verifying Hamas's disarmament.

Netanyahu's comments signal a hardening of Israel's stance, even as international pressure mounts for a de-escalation. The UN and several Arab states have called for an immediate ceasefire, warning of a growing humanitarian crisis in the enclave, where thousands of civilians have been displaced by weeks of heavy fighting.

Analysts note that the prime minister's rejection could strain ties with Washington, particularly if Trump's team continues to push for a diplomatic solution. However, Netanyahu faces domestic political constraints, with coalition partners on the far right demanding a continued military offensive until Hamas is decisively defeated.

As the conflict enters its sixth week, Israeli

As the conflict enters its sixth week, Israeli airstrikes have targeted what the military describes as command centers and weapons caches, while Hamas has launched sporadic rocket barrages into southern Israel. No new ceasefire talks have been announced, and Netanyahu said Israel will act unilaterally if necessary to achieve its stated security goals.