Israel rejected a 15-point plan for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip proposed by the Board of Peace, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced during a cabinet meeting on Sunday. Netanyahu emphasized that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) would not initiate any withdrawal from Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed.
Speaking to his cabinet, Netanyahu underscored that genuine disarmament is a precondition for any Israeli pullback. He clarified that negotiations with the United States are ongoing concerning the specifics of Hamas’s disarmament, but insisted that any such measures must be substantive. “When I say Hamas is disarmed, that means the heavy weapons, the less heavy weapons — all the weapons,” he said.
The prime minister also reiterated his firm opposition to the establishment of a Palestinian state. He was explicit in rejecting any form of sovereignty for Palestinians in the Gaza Strip as well as in the West Bank, referred to by some as Judea and Samaria. “As long as I am prime minister, there will be no Palestinian state, not in Gaza and not in Judea and Samaria. Neither ‘Fatahstan’ nor ‘Hamastan,’” Netanyahu stated.
In addition to Gaza, Netanyahu addressed recent reports about Israeli military activity in Lebanon, though details on this matter were not fully disclosed during the briefing.
Regarding regional security, Netanyahu warned that any attack by Iran would provoke a strong Israeli response, affirming that Tehran’s actions would be met with a “heavy blow.”
The 15-point plan rejected by Israel reportedly focused on the framework for humanitarian assistance and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. However, Netanyahu’s refusal reflected Israel’s insistence on strict security conditions before any easing of restrictions or returns to pre-conflict arrangements.
Netanyahu’s remarks come amid ongoing tensions along Israel’s borders and amid international efforts to stabilize the region following recent escalations. The Israeli government continues to prioritize security imperatives, particularly the neutralization of Hamas’s military capabilities, before considering any modification to its current policies.