Israel defies Trump’s peace plan as it escalates deadly attacks on Gaza

Israel is intensifying its military operations in Gaza, leading to significant Palestinian casualties, which threatens the US-backed peace plan. Despite Hamas accepting a phased ceasefire and disarmament roadmap, Israel has imposed stringent conditions, including the total disarmament of Hamas and the handover of weapons to a third party, while resisting Palestinian involvement in the process. Israeli officials cite "serious security concerns" and demand complete demilitarization before withdrawal. Experts suggest this hardline stance is partly driven by upcoming Israeli elections, with the government seeking to obstruct progress on the roadmap through continued military action and deliberate ambiguity. This escalation exacerbates the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and undermines diplomatic efforts for stability.

Israel has expressed "serious security concerns" to the White House regarding the proposed Hamas disarmament deal, according to an Israeli official. Israel's intelligence assessment indicates Hamas is focused on rebuilding its military rather than demilitarizing, and the Israeli military will not withdraw from Gaza until Hamas disarms. The official stated that redeployment before disarmament would allow Hamas to re-establish its infrastructure and threaten Israel. Hamas has agreed to disarm as part of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire, but the process faces significant obstacles. The deal, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump, outlines a phased approach involving Hamas surrendering weapons, Israeli withdrawal, a new Palestinian government, and international forces. Israel's concerns are reportedly based on intelligence suggesting Hamas continues to rearm.