Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Gaza City – Hamas is reviewing a new proposal to disarm its fighters in Gaza, a move that could unlock U.S.-backed plans to rebuild the war-torn territory. The response from Hamas, expected in the coming days or weeks, is pivotal for Gaza’s 2 million residents who remain in limbo nearly six months after a ceasefire took effect.
The group’s charter calls for armed resistance against Israel, and Hamas remains cautious about giving up its arsenal of rockets, explosives, and anti-tank weapons, which define its identity. Officials have expressed reservations over the current U.S.-backed plan, while the ongoing U.S.-Israel conflict with Iran complicates efforts, potentially delaying reconstruction.
Ceasefire Status and Challenges
The ceasefire, effective since October 10, ended the heaviest fighting and allowed critical humanitarian aid into Gaza. Yet, Israeli strikes have continued, resulting in nearly 700 Palestinian deaths, and Israel still controls more than half of Gaza.
Long-term measures of the U.S. 20-point plan—such as a U.N.-mandated peacekeeping force, a Palestinian technocratic committee to manage daily affairs, Israeli troop withdrawals, and a multi-year reconstruction program—are on hold. All of these steps hinge on Hamas’ disarmament.
Disarmament Proposal
Trump’s plan requires the destruction of Hamas’ “military, terror, and offensive infrastructure,” including tunnels and weapon production facilities. Hamas has sought to distinguish between heavy weapons like rockets and light arms such as rifles. They also want disarmament linked to Israeli troop withdrawals.
Mediator-backed proposals from Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt call for staged disarmament, beginning with the most dangerous weapons and eventually including personal firearms, while gradually transferring security to the new technocratic committee.
Hamas’ Response and Implications
Hamas officials have shown cautious interest, accepting the proposal in principle but seeking amendments, including guarantees that Israel will halt attacks. Senior Hamas official Bassem Naim criticized the mediator for aligning too closely with Israel.
Delays in response could prolong Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Israel’s 2023-25 offensive displaced 90% of Gaza’s population, leaving hundreds of thousands in temporary shelters dependent on aid. Without disarmament, reconstruction efforts and the establishment of a new governing framework remain uncertain.
Hamas’ decision on disarmament is now central to Gaza’s recovery and the success of the U.S. ceasefire plan. The international community watches closely as the next steps will determine whether the territory can move from devastation to rebuilding.
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