Netanyahu Rules Out Gaza Withdrawal, Rejects Palestinian State

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and rejected proposals for Palestinian statehood, even as Hamas confirmed it is reviewing a peace plan unveiled by President Donald Trump.

The 20-point plan, announced on Monday at the White House with Netanyahu by Trump’s side, calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of Israeli hostages held in Gaza, and the establishment of a new international “Board of Peace” to oversee the strip’s governance.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair is expected to play a role on the board.

The blueprint also leaves the door open to a “credible pathway” toward Palestinian self-determination and eventual statehood if Gaza is rebuilt and the Palestinian Authority undergoes reforms.

That suggestion, however, was firmly dismissed by Netanyahu.

“There is no agreement to a Palestinian state,” Netanyahu said in a video message on X, following his White House meeting.

“Israel will forcibly resist such an idea. Withdrawal from Gaza is not happening.”

He added that President Trump had pledged Israel “full backing to do what you would have to do” if Hamas rejects the proposal.

Meanwhile, Hamas officials have not given a formal response but said the plan is being reviewed “responsibly and in good faith.”

A Qatari foreign ministry spokesman confirmed that Hamas negotiators are in consultations with regional partners, including Turkey and Qatar.

BBC, citing sources in the militant group, reports that they expected to issue a “yes, but” type of reply, potentially welcoming elements of the proposal while demanding clarifications, particularly on Israel’s continued military presence and the future of Palestinian statehood.

The peace plan also demands the release within 72 hours of 20 living Israeli hostages and the return of remains of others held by Hamas, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and bodies held by Israel.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stressed that “peace in Gaza now depends on Hamas,” adding that Israel wanted a “de-radicalised, demilitarised” Gaza.

The plan has received support from Arab states, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Qatar, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia and Pakistan, as well as endorsements from European leaders.

EU Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen said they are “ready to contribute,” while French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer both urged Hamas to seize the opportunity.

Trump, making the announcement, called the initiative “one of the greatest days in the history of civilisation” and pledged it could bring “eternal peace in the Middle East.”

He, however, warned Hamas that if it refuses, Israel has his “complete support to finish the job.”