Netanyahu rejects US peace plan citing security concerns

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of a US-backed 15-point peace plan has left Palestinians in Gaza saying there is “no clear path” to ending the war. The plan, which called for an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and prisoners, and a framework for a future Palestinian state, was presented as a last chance to avoid further destruction. Netanyahu’s office said late on Sunday that Israel would not accept the proposal in its current form, citing security concerns and Hamas’s refusal to recognize Israel’s right to exist.

The decision comes after months of stalled negotiations and rising civilian casualties in Gaza. More than 37,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7, according to Gaza health officials. Hamas, which has led the armed resistance, says it remains committed to the agreement but warns that continued Israeli military operations make a deal harder to secure. Netanyahu has faced pressure from hardliners in his coalition government who oppose any deal that includes a Palestinian state.

Palestinians in Gaza say the rejection deepens uncertainty and frustration. “We’re going backwards,” said one resident of Rafah, where Israeli forces have intensified operations. International observers warn that without a ceasefire, humanitarian conditions will worsen, with food, water, and medical supplies already scarce. Egypt and Qatar, which have brokered past talks, have not yet commented on the latest rejection.

The next steps remain unclear. The US has called on both sides to return to talks, while Netanyahu insists Israel will continue military operations until Hamas is dismantled. Hamas leaders say they are ready to negotiate but warn that further attacks will only prolong the suffering. The impasse raises fears of a prolonged conflict with no political horizon in sight.