Kathmandu— Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel rejects the United States’ 15-point plan for Gaza and will maintain its military presence in the region until Hamas completely disarms. The decision comes after months of near-daily Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip despite an agreed-upon “ceasefire” last October, and casts doubt on the path forward for de-escalation. Netanyahu emphasized Israel is in communication with the US regarding the plan, but will firmly uphold its own security requirements.

Plan Details and Israeli Objections

The Trump-backed plan, endorsed by Hamas last month, initially focuses on dismantling Hamas’s heavy weaponry, military production sites, weapons depots, and tunnel network. However, Netanyahu insisted Israel demands “real disarmament, not fictitious disarmament,” encompassing all weapons, including lighter arms. He stated that Israeli forces will not withdraw until this complete disarmament is achieved and threats to its citizens are eliminated.

Concerns Over Implementation

Al Jazeera’s Hani Mahmoud, reporting from Gaza City, noted Netanyahu’s statement raises “serious questions” for Palestinians regarding the future of hostilities. Nour Odeh, reporting from Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank, explained that Netanyahu's conditions could prove “extremely problematic” for the Board of Peace and mediators attempting to facilitate Hamas disarmament. She added that the board, established by former President Trump, has “very limited power” without Israeli cooperation, suggesting Netanyahu’s announcement effectively resets the process.

Casualty Figures and Ongoing Conflict

Despite the October ceasefire agreement, Israel has continued military operations in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties. According to Gaza's health ministry, over 1,250 people have been killed and more than 4,120 wounded since mid-October of last year, with over 800 bodies recovered from rubble. The overall death toll in Gaza since October 2023 now exceeds 73,300, with over 174,000 injured.

Netanyahu’s firm stance signals a potential impasse in efforts to achieve lasting peace and security in the region, leaving the future of Gaza uncertain.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.