The latest developments in Gaza are deeply troubling. According to the discussion on Democracy Now!, Israel has rejected a 15-point proposal that would require Hamas to disarm while also requiring Israel to stop its attacks and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to accept these terms appears to place political survival and hard-line demands above the urgent need for peace. As Mouin Rabbani explained, conditioning Israel’s obligations on the complete disarmament of Hamas could become a “poison pill,” allowing the cessation of hostilities to be postponed indefinitely.

Even more alarming are the reported statements by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who has advocated killing 30–40 Palestinians every night in Gaza and used deeply dehumanizing language about Palestinians. Such rhetoric—especially when it encompasses civilians, including men, women, and children—must never be normalized or accepted.

The United States should use its influence to demand an immediate end to attacks on civilians, unrestricted humanitarian assistance, and a genuine political solution that recognizes the humanity, rights, and security of both Palestinians and Israelis. Diplomacy—not endless warfare—must be the path forward.