Kathmandu— Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel rejects a 15-point peace plan for Gaza proposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump and will not withdraw troops from the Palestinian enclave until Hamas is completely disarmed. The roadmap, published last month by what was termed the ‘Board of Peace,’ aimed to end the ongoing conflict by requiring Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza and place its weapons under a Palestinian administration’s authority, linked to phased Israeli withdrawals verified at each stage. Netanyahu stated Israel will continue discussions with the U.S., but will firmly oppose any unacceptable provisions.

Roadmap Details and US Expectations

The 15-point plan sought to build upon Trump's original 20-point peace plan, which facilitated an October ceasefire between Israel and Hamas but subsequently stalled due to disagreements over disarmament and Israeli withdrawals. Trump announced the deal on July 30th, hailing it as a “historic agreement” that would transfer control of Gaza to a new Palestinian government focused on serving its people. The Board of Peace was established after the ceasefire announcement with responsibilities including overseeing reconstruction in Gaza, facilitating a transition of civilian governance to a Palestinian technocratic committee, and coordinating an international stabilization force.

Conflicting Positions on Disarmament

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s position is non-negotiable: “The IDF will not withdraw in any way until Hamas is disarmed… We are talking about complete disarmament, not a fictitious disarmament.” This stance directly contradicts Hamas's own position, which states it will only consider disarmament after a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Netanyahu also reiterated his long-standing opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state, either in Gaza or the West Bank.

Casualties and International Perspectives

Despite the ceasefire agreement brokered by Trump’s initial plan, violence has continued in Gaza. Local health authorities report at least 1,258 people have been killed and over 4,100 wounded since the ceasefire was announced due to ongoing Israeli attacks. Russia has offered a different perspective, maintaining that the only viable solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the creation of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel.

Netanyahu indicated Israel will continue to engage with the U.S. regarding the plan but remains steadfast in its demand for complete Hamas disarmament before considering any withdrawal of troops from Gaza.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.