Hamas has agreed to disarm completely in Gaza, according to an announcement by former US President Donald Trump. A senior Hamas official confirmed the group's acceptance of the 'Board of Peace' plan, which aims for the full disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups in the territory. This development follows intense negotiations and marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict.
The agreement is part of a broader US-brokered ceasefire plan, with its second phase focusing on disarmament and the reconstruction of Gaza. Trump stated that Israel would withdraw from Gaza once disarmament is completed. He called this agreement a critical step towards Gaza being governed by a new Palestinian government. The plan envisions an International Stabilization Force working alongside a new Palestinian police force to ensure security in Gaza.
This breakthrough comes after years of conflict and failed peace efforts in the region. The US-brokered plan seeks to establish a lasting peace and rebuild the war-torn Gaza Strip. The involvement of key mediators such as Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey has been crucial in facilitating these discussions. These nations are expected to host further meetings to implement the second phase of the ceasefire plan.
US President Donald Trump announced the agreement on Truth Social, calling it a major milestone. He stated that the agreement would be carried out in carefully structured phases. Trump also thanked Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey for their mediation efforts. Egyptian state media reported that Cairo would host a meeting of Gaza mediators on the second phase of the ceasefire plan.
Earlier reports indicated progress in talks between mediators and Hamas leaders in Cairo. However, an Israeli official had previously stated that proposed terms were not satisfactory. The Times of Israel, citing an unnamed source, reported that negotiators from Hamas, the Board of Peace, and mediating countries signed the agreement. An Israeli office, however, issued a statement saying the disarmament proposal did not meet Jerusalem's demands.
This agreement follows a period of significant leadership changes within Hamas. Khalil al-Hayya was recently elected as the new leader of Hamas, replacing Yahya Sinwar, who was killed by the Israeli military in October 2024. Hayya, as chief negotiator, led Hamas delegations in indirect ceasefire talks in Egypt and Qatar. His leadership has been instrumental in reaching this agreement.
The 'Board of Peace' was initially intended to help end the war between Israel and Hamas and oversee reconstruction. Its proposed charter, however, does not explicitly mention the Palestinian territory. This suggests a broader mandate, potentially designed to supplant functions of the United Nations in the region. The long-term implications of this new body remain to be seen.
Hamas launched an attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. Israel responded with a massive military campaign in Gaza. This campaign has led to more than 73,290 deaths, including 21,280 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. The disarmament agreement offers a glimmer of hope for an end to the devastating conflict and a path towards stability in the region.
The implementation of this agreement will be closely watched by international observers and regional powers. The withdrawal of Israeli forces and the establishment of a new Palestinian government are complex undertakings. The role of the International Stabilization Force will be critical in maintaining security during the transition. Future developments will depend on the commitment of all parties to the agreed-upon terms.