Mediators Insist on Hamas Disarmament Despite Government Resignation in Gaza

Mediating countries, led by Egypt, view the recent resignation of Hamas's Gaza government as a technical step facilitating ongoing negotiations, but they remain firm on the demand for Hamas to disarm. The resignation, announced by Hamas on Monday, aims to reduce pressure from mediators following recent talks hosted by Egypt with Hamas representatives to find creative solutions for disarmament. Sources familiar with the mediators' stance told Kan News that Egypt does not consider the resignation as a waiver for Hamas from the disarmament issue and continues to expect flexibility from the group.

Hamas declared that Muhammad al-Farra, head of the emergency government committee managing Gaza during the conflict, resigned to allow a technocratic government to take over. However, al-Farra is largely seen as a figurehead. The real power in Gaza lies with Ali al-Amoudi, who was released in the Gilad Shalit prisoner exchange, previously served in Yahya Sinwar's office, and headed Hamas's propaganda apparatus. Currently, al-Amoudi oversees both the political and military wings of Hamas in Gaza and is expected to be officially appointed as Hamas leader there.

The U.S.-led peace council responded to the resignation by expressing frustration with repeated promises and emphasizing the need for "one government, one law, one weapon." Meanwhile, Egypt has proposed that Hamas hand over its weapons to Egyptian custody as part of the disarmament process. Hamas's strategy appears focused on delaying concessions in negotiations with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, seeking to buy time and postpone compromises once again.