In a heated moment that could shape the next Israeli election, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly rejected Donald Trump’s 15‑point Gaza peace roadmap. The plan aims to dismantle Hamas weapons and allow the U.S. to deploy an international stabilization force that will work with a new Palestinian police force.
While the White House hasn’t officially commented, officials say they’re not worried: “We understand Bibi’s political needs”, a senior U.S. source told a journalist. “We have no problem with it as long as he keeps Israel under guard.”
Netanyahu’s tone was clear: Israel will not withdraw from Gaza until every Hamas weapon is destroyed – full, real disarmament, not a turnaround of the situation.
The rejection comes just weeks before Israel’s general election in late October, its first since the October 7 attack. The race will pit Netanyahu against a field of challengers who have voiced doubts about the peace plan and whether Hamas will follow through.
Meanwhile the U.S. and Israeli leaders believe the roadmap’s success is tied to trust and verification. International troops are slated to set up a base in Rafah at the end of this month, signalling that even if Israel’s position holds, the peace effort is still in motion.
Beyond politics, the war has left Gaza in ruins. The latest images show Palestinians walking through wrecked streets, a stark reminder of why a durable solution matters.
