Hamas Expected to Announce Disarmament and Relinquish Gaza Governance to International Force

Two regional sources confirmed to Channel 13 on Thursday that advanced talks are underway for Hamas to declare disarmament and to cede control of the Gaza Strip to an international stabilization force. The discussions, facilitated by Egypt and Qatar, could culminate in a signing ceremony in Egypt within days. These developments follow recent pressure from mediators Egypt and Qatar, with talks taking place in Cairo under Egyptian intelligence auspices and involving mediators from Qatar and Turkey.

One source told Channel 13 that while some minor disagreements remain, the Trump administration is pushing for progress on the declaration. Hamas is reportedly willing to transfer its weapons to a third party other than the Palestinian Authority. The announcement could be imminent, though Channel 13's US correspondent Suleiman Massouda tempered expectations, describing the move as "forced progress" driven by US pressure on mediators who in turn pressured Hamas.

Massouda also noted a perception that the announcement might be used to portray Israel as failing to uphold its commitments under the Trump administration's 20-point agreement. The situation remains fluid as negotiations continue, with the potential for significant shifts in Gaza's governance and security arrangements.