Netanyahu Rejects U.S. Proposed Gaza Plan Over Disarmament Concerns

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has refused a 15-point plan for Gaza presented by U.S. President Donald Trump’s Board of Peace. Netanyahu stated that Israeli forces would remain in the region until Hamas is “genuinely” disarmed.

Netanyahu’s Stance

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s rejection of the proposal. He pointed out that Israel refused a symbolic disarmament process, demanding a complete surrender of Hamas’ arsenal before any troop withdrawal begins. He defined “genuine disarmament” as encompassing all types of weapons. Netanyahu expressed his intention for Israel to maintain its capability to counter threats from Gaza.

Negotiations with Washington are ongoing. However, Netanyahu clarified that Israel would not automatically comply with U.S.-led proposals. He stated Israel’s readiness to “stand our ground” when considering such matters and reiterated his opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The 15-Point Gaza Proposal

The 15-point plan was a road map aimed at advancing Trump’s 20-point Gaza strategy. It suggested connecting Hamas’ disarmament with Israeli withdrawals, governance transfer, and Gaza’s reconstruction. The plan called for an end to military actions from Israel and Hamas, establishing a timeline and mechanisms for implementation.

Palestinian factions, including Hamas, would relinquish authority to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), a body supported by the Board of Peace, handling public services and internal security. Security provisions advocated for a single authority overseeing all weapons, with vetted police under NCAG control. Hamas would gradually surrender heavy and production weapons, while militia members would be prohibited from joining the new police forces.

An International Verification Committee would verify commitments before proceeding. An International Stabilization Force was proposed to oversee the ceasefire and train Palestinian police. The plan suggested phased Israeli withdrawal contingent upon verified disarmament steps.

Gaza’s reconstruction would occur under a plan overseen by the Board of Peace and the Palestinian committee. The roadmap aimed to establish conditions conducive to Palestinian self-determination and statehood, clashing with Netanyahu’s stance on Palestinian statehood.

Hamas expressed conditional support, dependent on Israel ceasing attacks and fulfilling its commitments. The debate regarding sequence—disarmament or withdrawal—remains unresolved.