Peace Council Claims Hamas Agrees to Disarm in New Gaza Plan

The Peace Council, an organization involved in efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict, announced on Wednesday, September 23, that Hamas has agreed to disarm as part of a new plan for the enclave's reconstruction. Tony Blair, a senior leader of the Peace Council, stated at a conference on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York that Hamas has agreed to dismantle its extensive tunnel infrastructure and weapons facilities. "Hamas has agreed that this will happen, and this is a milestone that will turn our current task into an agreement," Blair said, emphasizing the need to destroy this infrastructure for any new administration to govern Gaza. He further asserted that Gaza is now free from Hamas rule, with a new security mechanism, international stabilization, and police force agreed upon with Israel. Blair indicated that while the issue of a Palestinian state remains unresolved, the possibility is kept open, contingent on Israel's security and Palestinian self-governance.

The Peace Council presented data indicating that 70% of Gaza is in ruins, though humanitarian conditions have seen significant improvement. Blair expressed optimism about commencing reconstruction in 2027, noting progress since the previous year's UN General Assembly, including the return of all hostages and a sustained, albeit imperfect, ceasefire. He credited billions in humanitarian aid and the collaborative efforts of those involved in the Peace Council's work, under the guidance of former US President Donald Trump.

Jared Kushner, another senior leader within the Peace Council for Gaza and former President Trump's son-in-law, highlighted the organization's focus on solutions rather than blame. He stated that aid is now more effectively reaching Gaza's residents, a change from the previous year. Kushner described the initiative as building a platform for Gazans to improve their lives and for those seeking peace to achieve it. He reiterated the goal of a prosperous Gaza, free from weapons, and acknowledged that while the plan has de-escalated confrontation and addressed the hostage situation, the broader problem remains. Kushner urged continued commitment to the plan, expressing hope for progress in the coming year.