Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a US-backed Gaza peace plan aimed at disarming Hamas and facilitating Israeli withdrawal from the territory, according to multiple reports. The plan, backed by former US President Donald Trump, was presented as a 15-point initiative to achieve a lasting ceasefire and political settlement in the region. Netanyahu’s rejection marks a significant setback for the initiative, which had been promoted as a potential breakthrough in the ongoing conflict (standard.co.uk).

The plan, which called for Hamas to lay down its weapons in exchange for Israeli withdrawal, was seen as a diplomatic effort to de-escalate tensions in Gaza. However, Netanyahu argued that such a move would compromise Israel’s security and territorial integrity. His stance aligns with the broader Israeli government position that a lasting peace requires a comprehensive agreement rather than unilateral concessions (businessday.ng).

Meanwhile, the Trump administration has shifted its approach toward Iran, adopting a more measured stance as a potential deal on the Strait of Hormuz nears. This development reflects the complex geopolitical landscape in the Middle East, where multiple actors are engaged in negotiations and strategic maneuvering (news.google.com).

Sources
  • Al Jazeera — Where does Iran stand on Saudi-Pakistan-Turkiye defence pact?
  • BusinessLine — Israel rejects Trump's Gaza plan, more details emerge on Strait of Hormuz and other Mideast news
  • Business News Nigeria — WORLD IN BRIEF: Trump, Netanyahu clash over Gaza, Iran conditions Hormuz reopening, Ebola cases top 4,000 and other stories
  • The Nightly — Benjamin Netanyahu rejects Trump-backed Gaza plan for Hamas disarmament, Israeli withdrawal
  • news.google.com — Trump shifts to ‘low keying it’ with Iran as Strait of Hormuz deal nears - NewsNation
  • standard.co.uk — Israel rejects Trump's Board of Peace plan for Gaza