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Israelis are reacting with skepticism to a U.S.-backed proposal that would see Israeli forces withdraw from Gaza only after Hamas has fully disarmed.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected key parts of the framework on Sunday, insisting Israel’s military “will not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed,” even as discussions with Washington continue.
The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among Israelis, particularly those directly affected by the October 7 attacks.
Shlomo Margalit, Resident of Kibbutz Nir Oz: “I don’t want to give any chance to what happened on 7th of October will repeat itself. On the other hand, there is a slight chance, so we have to find a way to give it a chance, to see what’s going on, to put our hand on every small step that they (Hamas) are doing, to make sure that’s in our benefit and be optimistic.”
Others remain unconvinced the plan can succeed.
Bruce Schonefeld, Tel Aviv Resident: “It sounds very nice but it’s a joke. Because, I think the United States, President Trump needs something to say – ‘look I brought peace to Gaza’, but it’s clear that Hamas won’t disarm and if Hamas doesn’t disarm Israel is not going anywhere… So, until Hamas is gone from Gaza, there will be no peace.”
Israel currently controls more than half of Gaza, where widespread destruction is visible across the territory. Hamas says it remains committed to the proposed roadmap and expects mediators and the United States to press Israel to move forward with the agreement.
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