President Donald Trump attended a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago on December 29, 2025. During this meeting, Netanyahu rejected a 15-point peace plan proposed by Trump aimed at resolving conflict in Gaza. Netanyahu underscored that Israeli forces would remain in Gaza until Hamas is fully disarmed. He stated, “We are talking about genuine disarmament, not fictitious disarmament.”
These remarks came shortly after President Trump announced a peace agreement with the Palestinian group Hamas. Trump claimed this deal marked a significant step toward lasting peace and security. The plan called for Hamas and other groups to hand over their weapons to a vetted international force.
However, a senior Hamas figure indicated that disarmament would only occur if Israel withdrew from parts of Gaza initially. This disagreement followed an earlier ceasefire established in October 2025, linked to Trump’s broader plan for the region. That agreement paused significant hostilities, facilitated the release of hostiles and prisoners, increased aid, and proposed a partial Israeli withdrawal.
Trump’s updated 15-point plan, made public on July 31, aimed to resolve remaining disputes. It suggested a phased process, allowing for Israeli withdrawal and Hamas’s disarmament simultaneously. The Board of Peace, aiding Trump’s efforts, supported Netanyahu’s stance. They specified that Israeli forces would not move beyond a defined line until Hamas had relinquished all weapons.
Netanyahu reiterated his position as Israel gears up for an election on October 27, with polls reflecting potential challenges for his coalition. Despite the impasse, Israel retains control of about 70% of Gaza, according to Palestinian sources and aid groups. Hamas issued a statement on Sunday, confirming its commitment to the previously agreed roadmap. Anas Baba from NPR provided reporting assistance from Gaza.