Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point peace plan for Gaza proposed by former US President Donald Trump, stating that any Israeli military withdrawal is contingent on the genuine disarmament of Hamas.

Trump's "Board of Peace" had announced last month an agreement for the complete disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in the Gaza Strip. However, Hamas had previously indicated that handing over its heavy weapons was conditional on Israel ending all forms of aggression and withdrawing its forces from the territory.

Speaking at a cabinet meeting on Sunday, Netanyahu asserted that the Israeli military would not conduct any withdrawal until Hamas was "genuinely disarmed." He added that Israel would continue to "thwart threats against our forces and our citizens." This stance directly contradicts the premise of the plan announced by Trump's team, which suggested Hamas had agreed to disarm.

A Hamas official, speaking to the BBC on Sunday, reaffirmed the group's commitment to the agreement and readiness to engage seriously in implementing the 15-point plan. The official urged mediators to ensure all parties adhere to the agreed terms.

Israel's rejection marks another setback for Trump's Gaza peace initiative, which was unveiled in September of the previous year. The plan outlined the establishment of a Board of Peace to oversee its implementation, alongside the disarmament of Hamas, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the reconstruction of Gaza.

Netanyahu's statement, while perhaps not surprising, comes after a period of deliberation, potentially reflecting the challenging political position he occupies. He appears to be in a difficult spot, needing to address Trump's plan without alienating a key ally, while also facing domestic pressure.

The Prime Minister emphasized that any disarmament of Hamas must be "real" and not "fictitious." He indicated that discussions with US officials regarding the way forward are ongoing, acknowledging that some proposals are acceptable while others are not. Netanyahu stated his government's resolve to "stand our ground" on these matters.

With Israeli elections approaching and pressure from right-wing coalition members to adopt a firm stance on Gaza, Netanyahu is unlikely to make significant concessions. Ministers such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have already dismissed the draft plan as unacceptable, calling for a new cabinet vote to end the Gaza initiative.