Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected a US-backed Gaza plan endorsed by Hamas, distancing himself from President Donald Trump as he campaigns ahead of close elections.
Netanyahu's opposition came after more than a week of escalating criticism, and despite assurances that Israel would not need to begin withdrawing from Gaza immediately. He yielded to pressure from right-wing allies.
In a statement, Netanyahu said the Israeli military would not carry out any withdrawal until Hamas is genuinely disarmed, and that it would continue to thwart threats against Israeli forces and citizens.
The plan, touted by Trump, had been endorsed by Hamas. Netanyahu's rejection marks a break with the US president on one of the region's most sensitive issues.