Palestinians in Gaza say Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s rejection of the US-backed 15-point plan has deepened uncertainty over an end to the war, according to Al Jazeera. The proposal, backed by the Biden administration, aimed to ease tensions and create a path toward peace.

Rejection Sparks Frustration

‘We’re going backwards,’ one Palestinian resident said, reflecting the widespread frustration among civilians in the region. The 15-point plan, which included steps like easing border restrictions and increasing humanitarian aid, was seen by many as a potential turning point in the conflict.

Netanyahu’s government has faced international pressure to accept the proposal, with the United States and several European nations urging Israel to take a step toward de-escalation. However, Israeli officials have criticized the plan as being too favorable to Hamas and not stringent enough in ensuring Israel’s security.

Hamas Commits to Agreement

Despite the rejection, Hamas says it remains committed to the agreement. The militant group, which controls the Gaza Strip, has been engaged in intermittent ceasefires with Israel over the past year. A Hamas official said the organization is still open to negotiations and believes the 15-point plan is a viable option.

‘We have shown our willingness to find a peaceful resolution,’ the Hamas official said. ‘It is now up to Israel to respond in good faith.’ The statement comes amid ongoing discussions between regional actors, including Egypt and Qatar, who have been mediating efforts to bring the two sides together.

The 15-point plan was brokered in part by Egyptian and Qatari officials, who have played a key role in previous ceasefires. The plan includes steps such as opening humanitarian corridors, reducing Israeli military operations in Gaza, and allowing more aid into the territory.

International Reactions

The Biden administration has reiterated its support for the plan, with the White House calling on Israel to reconsider its stance. ‘We believe the 15-point plan is a viable path forward,’ a senior administration official said. ‘We urge all parties to prioritize the safety and well-being of civilians.’

Egyptian officials have also expressed concern over the rejection, warning that it could lead to further instability in the region. ‘The rejection of the plan is a setback,’ an Egyptian government official said. ‘It is critical that all parties engage in meaningful dialogue to avoid further violence.’

European Union officials have similarly called for renewed efforts to find a peaceful resolution. The EU has been a vocal supporter of the 15-point plan and has urged both Israel and Hamas to show flexibility.

Netanyahu has not provided a detailed explanation for the rejection, but Israeli officials have suggested that the plan does not go far enough in addressing security concerns. ‘We cannot compromise on issues that threaten our national security,’ an Israeli government spokesperson said.

Palestinians in Gaza, however, see the rejection as another setback in their quest for peace. Many residents have expressed concern that the continued conflict is taking a toll on their daily lives. ‘Every day, we are waiting for something to change,’ one resident said. ‘But nothing is getting better.’

As the situation remains tense, the international community continues to call for dialogue and de-escalation. With both sides still far from a broad agreement, the path to peace remains unclear for now.