- Israeli Prime Minister Says No Military Withdrawal Until Hamas Gives Up All Weapons
TEL AVIV: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected a 15-point document concerning the Gaza conflict, saying Israel will not withdraw its forces until Hamas is completely and genuinely disarmed.
Speaking at the opening of the Israeli government’s weekly meeting, Netanyahu said Israel did not accept the proposed document and insisted that any disarmament arrangement must cover all categories of weapons held by Hamas.
“Israel does not accept the 15-point document. The Israel Defense Forces will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is disarmed,” Netanyahu said, according to his office.
Israel Seeks Agreement With Washington
Netanyahu said Israel was currently discussing the issue with the United States, noting that Washington had presented several proposals, some of which Israel considers acceptable and others it rejects.
“We know how to stand firm against these things,” he said, signaling that Israel would maintain its position during negotiations with its principal ally.
Netanyahu emphasized that Israel’s demand was for what he described as “genuine disarmament”, covering heavy weapons, light weapons and all other arms, rather than what he called a symbolic or incomplete arrangement.
Netanyahu Vows Iran Will Not Obtain Nuclear Weapon
Turning to Iran, Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s opposition to Tehran acquiring a nuclear weapon, saying Israel would maintain that position regardless of whether the United States and Iran reach an agreement.
“I greatly appreciate the historical partnership with the US against Iran’s attempts to acquire nuclear weapons,” Netanyahu said.
He added that “with or without an agreement,” Iran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon for as long as he remained prime minister.
Israeli Leader Issues Warning to Iran
Netanyahu also accused Iran of attacking countries across the region and beyond, while claiming that Tehran had refrained from directly attacking Israel because of the consequences it would face.
He warned that Israel would respond with a “massive blow” if Iran launched an attack against the country.
His remarks come amid continuing tensions over Gaza, Iran’s nuclear program and broader regional security, with Israel and the United States maintaining close consultations over the evolving situation.
BY: The Times Union
