Israelis Split Over Netanyahu's Rejection of Trump's Gaza Peace Plan

In southern Israel, the latest US-backed peace plan for Gaza has drawn a deeply divided response, with residents expressing both cautious optimism and outright dismissal. The plan, announced by former President Trump, proposes a lasting ceasefire contingent on the complete disarmament of Hamas. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has publicly rejected the 15-point document, insisting that Israeli forces will not withdraw until Hamas is genuinely disarmed.

Speaking at a Cabinet meeting, Netanyahu reiterated his stance, saying, "Israel rejects the 15-point document," while noting that discussions with Washington are ongoing. The White House has not yet commented on his statement.

At Kibbutz Nir Oz, resident Shlomo Margalit voiced mixed feelings. "I don't want to give any chance to what happened on 7th of October will repeat itself," he said, referring to the deadly Hamas attack. "On the other hand, there is a slight chance, so we have to find a way to give it a chance... and be optimistic."

In contrast, Bruce Schonefeld, a Tel Aviv resident, dismissed the plan as "a joke" while visiting the Re'im festival grounds memorial for victims and hostages. He argued that Trump needs a political win, saying, "It's clear that Hamas won't disarm and if Hamas doesn't disarm Israel is not going anywhere." He echoed Netanyahu's position, adding, "Until Hamas is gone from Gaza, there will be no peace."

Hamas, for its part, has stated it remains committed to the roadmap and expects mediators and the US to pressure Netanyahu.

From the Israeli side of the border, the scale of destruction in Gaza is starkly visible, with homes and buildings reduced to rubble and barbed wire fences marking the divide. Israeli forces currently control more than half of the enclave, home to roughly two million people.