Tensions Rise Over Hamas Disarmament Amid Fragile Gaza Ceasefire

The ongoing ceasefire in Gaza, established after the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel, has entered a critical phase as negotiations intensify over the disarmament of Hamas. The ceasefire, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, halted hostilities and facilitated the release of hostages, but the next steps remain contentious. The agreement comprises three phases, with the second phase expected to involve further Israeli troop withdrawals and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, contingent upon Hamas laying down its arms.

The Arab WeeklyThe Arab WeeklyAtlantic CouncilTimes of IsraelHamas says weapons are 'legitimate right', open to proposals that preserve itThe HillTRT WorldThe New Zealand Herald

Hamas leaders, including Khalil al-Hayya and Khaled Meshaal, have firmly rejected the notion of total disarmament, asserting that their weapons are a "legitimate right" under international law. Al-Hayya emphasized that any proposals for the ceasefire's next phases must respect this right, linking it to the establishment of a Palestinian state. Meshaal suggested that Hamas might consider a "freeze" or "storage" of its weapons rather than complete disarmament, arguing that removing their arms would strip them of their identity and security.

NaharnetHamas says weapons are 'legitimate right', open to proposals that preserve itTimes of IsraelThe Arab WeeklyThe Arab WeeklyTRT WorldAtlantic CouncilThe New Zealand HeraldThe Hill

In contrast, Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have reiterated that Hamas must be disarmed as part of the peace plan. Netanyahu's office stated, "Hamas will be disarmed," indicating that this will occur "the easy way or the hard way." The U.S. administration supports this stance, viewing disarmament as essential for Gaza's recovery and stability. The Trump administration's plan includes the establishment of a technocratic Palestinian government and reconstruction efforts, all contingent on Hamas's disarmament.

The Arab WeeklyAtlantic CouncilThe HillThe Arab WeeklyTimes of IsraelNew York PostHamas says weapons are 'legitimate right', open to proposals that preserve it

Tensions escalated recently with the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) killing Raad Saad, a senior Hamas commander, in an airstrike. The IDF described Saad as integral to Hamas's military operations and accused him of violating ceasefire agreements. Hamas condemned the strike, claiming it undermined the fragile ceasefire and accusing Israel of continuous violations. This incident highlights the precarious nature of the ceasefire, as both sides accuse each other of breaches.

New York PostThe HillThe New Zealand HeraldThe Arab WeeklyThe Arab WeeklyTimes of IsraelTRT World

Critics of the disarmament demands argue that such measures could lead to further violence and instability. Hamas leaders have expressed concerns that disarming without guarantees against Israeli aggression would leave them vulnerable. They advocate for international forces to monitor the ceasefire rather than enforce disarmament, viewing any foreign troops in Gaza as an occupying force.

The Arab Weekly

As the situation develops, Netanyahu and Trump are scheduled to meet on December 29 to discuss the next steps in the peace plan. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the future of Gaza, with the potential for either renewed conflict or a path toward stability and reconstruction. The international community's role, particularly that of Arab states and organizations, will also be crucial in shaping the next phase of the ceasefire and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Atlantic Council

• “We affirm that the resistance and its weapons are a legitimate right guaranteed under international law to all nations under occupation,” — Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas Leader

Times of Israel

• “Israel will continue to follow the 20-point plan. There will be no Hamas inside of the Gaza Strip. Hamas will be disarmed.” — Shosh Bedrosian, Spokeswoman for Israeli Prime Minister

The Arab Weekly

• “The idea of total disarmament is unacceptable to the resistance (Hamas),” — Khaled Meshaal, Hamas Leader

The Arab Weekly

There is a significant divide between Hamas's insistence on retaining its arms and Israel's commitment to disarm the group. While Hamas proposes a weapons freeze, Israel maintains that disarmament is non-negotiable. The international community's response to these conflicting positions remains to be seen, as does the potential for further violence if negotiations falter.

The Arab Weekly