Full Breakdown
Hamas Tightens Control in Gaza Amid Ceasefire Delays
3/26/2026, 9:29:12 PM
Current Situation and Ceasefire Challenges
The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas faces significant delays, primarily due to the ongoing conflict involving Iran, as highlighted in a recent report by the Meir Amit Intelligence and Terrorism Information Center (ITIC). The report indicates that these delays are allowing Hamas to strengthen its military capabilities and tighten its grip on the Gaza Strip. The second phase of the US-backed ceasefire agreement, which would require Hamas to disarm while Israeli forces withdraw from parts of Gaza, is currently stalled. This situation has led to increased violence and a crackdown by Hamas on any opposition within the enclave.
Hamas's Military and Civilian Control
Hamas has reportedly been rearming by smuggling weapons from Egypt and producing arms domestically. The group has also intensified its civilian control through an expanded police presence and regulation of local markets. The ITIC report notes that Hamas's confidence is growing, evidenced by the visible presence of armed operatives in areas it controls, which constitute approximately 47% of Gaza without Israeli military oversight. Israeli officials have expressed concerns that Hamas must fully disarm for the ceasefire to progress, pointing to the extensive network of tunnels and stockpiles of weapons still under the group's control.
Israeli Position and International Response
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly stated that Israel will not withdraw its troops or approve reconstruction efforts unless Hamas relinquishes its weapons. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) currently occupy about 53% of Gaza, with military operations aimed at disarming Hamas resuming recently. The United Nations Security Council has convened to assess the progress of the peace plan, which includes deploying an international stabilization force (ISF) and establishing a transitional Palestinian governing body.
Nickolay Mladenov, a representative on Trump's Board of Peace, emphasized the need for a unified governing authority in Gaza, stating, “the principle of one authority, one law, and one weapon” is essential for stability. The proposed framework envisions a phased disarmament process, where armed groups would transfer their weapons to a transitional Palestinian authority, allowing for reconstruction efforts to commence.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the detailed framework, skepticism remains regarding Hamas's willingness to comply with disarmament. Critics question whether the group can be compelled to relinquish its arms, especially given its entrenched position in Gaza. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has warned that if Hamas does not disarm, Israel will take military action to dismantle the group's capabilities.
What's Next?
The future of the ceasefire and reconstruction efforts in Gaza remains uncertain. While the international community, including countries like Indonesia, Morocco, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, and Albania, has committed to supporting the ISF, there is no clear timeline for disarmament or Israeli military withdrawal. The ongoing conflict with Iran and its implications for regional stability further complicate the situation, leaving the path forward for Gaza's governance and security in question.
Verbatim Quotes
- “If Hamas does not disarm in accordance with the agreed framework, we will dismantle it and all of its capabilities,” — Israel Katz, Israeli Defense Minister
- “The people of Gaza want reconstruction, and reconstruction requires the decommissioning of weapons,” — Nickolay Mladenov, Gaza Envoy on Trump's Board of Peace
