Gaza Peace Council Optimistic About Disarmament Plan
The Gaza Peace Council expressed optimism on Wednesday regarding the implementation of a plan to end the conflict in the Gaza Strip within the coming year, despite difficulties from both Israel and Hamas. Senior council member Tony Blair stated at a UN General Assembly side event in New York that Hamas has agreed to disarm, a crucial step for destroying the extensive tunnel infrastructure and weapons manufacturing facilities beneath Gaza City. Blair indicated that a "new administration" cannot govern without this systematic destruction and that Hamas's agreement marks a "milestone" towards a broader agreement.
Blair further claimed that Gaza has been "freed from Hamas control" and that a "full demilitarization of Gaza with a new security mechanism, international stabilization, and a police force" have all been agreed upon with Israel. While the issue of a Palestinian state is not being resolved now, the option remains open, contingent on Israeli security and Palestinian self-governance. He noted that 70% of Gaza has been rebuilt, with significant humanitarian improvements, though many still face dire conditions. The council plans to move towards implementing the plan in the next year.
Nikolay Mladenov, the council's senior envoy for Gaza, expressed surprise at the progress, noting that a roadmap with Hamas, mediated by Qatar and Turkey, includes a commitment to disarm. He highlighted the presence of the Palestinian Technocratic Committee, a temporary governing body established in early 2026, managing civilian life and public services. Mladenov attributed delays to Israel's election system, which he described as making political discussions more "emotional and sensitive."
Steve Witkoff, President Trump's envoy, reported that over 24 countries are ready to contribute resources to the effort, citing progress in returning hostages, a ceasefire, and historic humanitarian aid. Jared Kushner, a senior member of the council, emphasized a focus on solutions rather than blame, aiming to build a platform for Gazans to improve their lives and live in peace, which requires Gaza to be demilitarized. He acknowledged that while the plan has de-escalated tensions and secured the release of hostages, it has not fully resolved the underlying problem.
Dr. Ali Shaath, head of the Palestinian Technocratic Committee, described the current situation as "chaotic" and stressed the urgent need for funds, especially with winter approaching, to rebuild Gaza and provide education for children who have been deprived of it for three years. General Jasper Jeffers, commander of the International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, detailed plans to train forces from Morocco, Kosovo, Albania, and Kazakhstan to dismantle tunnels and weapons, paving the way for an IDF withdrawal. The plan also includes the possibility of Gaza becoming a tax-free zone, with a proposal for 66 projects costing $2.45 billion over the next six months, focusing on immediate humanitarian needs, temporary housing, and preparing police and international forces.
