Hamas rejects disarmament plan without Palestinian state guarantee

Hamas has refused to fully disarm under a proposal discussed in Cairo, linking any surrender of weapons to the creation of an independent Palestinian state, diplomats said.

According to officials familiar with the talks, Hamas told mediators that disarmament could only be considered within a broader political framework that guarantees Palestinian self-determination.

The proposal, backed by the United States, envisions a phased disarmament process as part of post-war arrangements for the Gaza Strip.

Hamas has instead demanded clearer assurances on statehood before entering negotiations on relinquishing its weapons, highlighting major gaps in ongoing discussions.

The group also accused Israel of violating the initial phase of the October ceasefire, citing continued military operations, territorial expansion in eastern Gaza, and reduced humanitarian aid flows.

Diplomatic sources say progress remains possible but would require coordinated pressure, including efforts to ensure all sides adhere to ceasefire commitments.

However, they noted that global attention on tensions involving Iran has limited the likelihood of sustained international engagement on Gaza negotiations.

Negotiations over Gaza’s future have repeatedly stalled due to disagreements on security arrangements, governance, and the role of armed groups in any post-war settlement.

The question of Palestinian statehood remains central to the conflict, with armed groups and political factions insisting on sovereignty guarantees before accepting major concessions.

Reports say Hamas’s position underscores deep divisions in the talks, suggesting that any breakthrough will depend on wider political agreements beyond immediate ceasefire and security issues.

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