Israel rejects Trump's 15-point plan for Gaza, says PM Benjamin Netanyahu

Israel has rejected a 15-point peace plan proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump for Gaza, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas fully disarms. The rejection, announced during a cabinet meeting on Sunday, marks a critical juncture in the conflict, as Netanyahu emphasized that “Israel rejects the 15 point document” and reiterated the condition that “Hamas must be disarmed” before any military withdrawal. This stance aligns with Israel’s broader demand for guarantees against future threats, a requirement that remains unmet despite the plan’s provisions.

The Trump-endorsed plan, detailed in a verbatim proposal published by Indian Express, outlines a framework for ending the war, including the establishment of a “deradicalized terror-free zone” in Gaza, the creation of a temporary transitional governance committee, and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) to ensure security. The plan also includes provisions for humanitarian aid, the release of hostages, and the dismantling of Hamas’s military infrastructure. However, Netanyahu’s rejection underscores the deepening impasse, as the Israeli leader stressed that “genuine disarmament” must precede any troop withdrawal, specifying that all weapons—“heavy, lighter, and all”—must be eliminated.

Hamas’s position, as reported by Indian Express, complicates the plan’s viability. The group stated it would disarm but only after Israeli forces withdraw completely from Gaza and cease hostilities. Hamas also linked its disarmament to the establishment of a Palestinian state, a condition that remains contentious. This divergence in demands has left the ceasefire in a fragile state, with both sides accusing each other of failing to meet obligations. Netanyahu, ahead of upcoming Israeli elections, reiterated his stance that “as long as I am Prime Minister, there will be no Palestinian State,” signaling little room for compromise.

The Trump plan redefines the role of the U.S.-led Board of Peace, with the former president set to chair the body alongside figures like former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. The board’s mandate includes overseeing Gaza’s redevelopment and ensuring compliance with the agreement, though Netanyahu’s rejection casts doubt on its effectiveness. A recent meeting between the board’s director, Nickolay Mladenov, and Netanyahu reinforced the conditional approach, according to reports.

The plan’s provisions for humanitarian aid and governance in Gaza, including the creation of a special economic zone and the involvement of international experts, aim to address the region’s long-term stability. However, Netanyahu’s emphasis on security has overshadowed these elements, with the prime minister stating that the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) “will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed.” This has drawn criticism from international mediators, who argue that the ceasefire’s survival hinges on progress toward disarmament and governance reforms.

The Gaza conflict, now in its third year, continues to face challenges as both sides navigate competing priorities. Israeli military operations persist, exacerbating humanitarian crises and complicating diplomatic efforts. The Trump plan’s emphasis on a “temporary transitional governance” model for Gaza, led by a technocratic committee, contrasts with Hamas’s insistence on direct political control. The lack of consensus on these issues has left the ceasefire in a precarious position, with analysts warning that stalled negotiations risk prolonging the humanitarian and security crisis.

The rejection of the 15-point plan highlights the broader geopolitical stakes of the conflict. For Israel, the priority remains eliminating threats from Gaza, while international actors seek to prevent further escalation. The continued strikes and stalled negotiations risk prolonging the humanitarian crisis, with reports of food shortages, damaged infrastructure, and displacement persisting. As the situation evolves, the absence of a clear path forward raises concerns about the long-term prospects for peace in the region.