Israel and Hamas Near Agreement on Gaza Disarmament Framework

Israeli and Hamas officials are reportedly making significant progress toward an agreement on the next phase in Gaza, centered on a framework for the disarmament and storage of weapons under a mutually agreed mechanism. Sources in Gaza indicate that an official announcement could be made as soon as today, contingent on a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and a halt to targeted killings. Israeli officials view the developments positively.

According to a Gaza-based source involved in the talks, understandings have been reached regarding the handling of weapons, including a plan for their surrender and storage overseen by an agreed mechanism. This formula is accepted by Hamas and international mediators. Additionally, agreements have been made concerning the management of civilian agencies and systems in Gaza. The source suggested that the Israeli government will review the proposal in light of its demand for Hamas's complete disarmament. U.S. support could keep the plan viable even under a future Israeli government.

Political analyst Yaakov Bardugo reported that one option under consideration is for Hamas to begin handing over weapons and revealing tunnel locations within about two weeks. The roadmap would require Hamas to cease military activity first, followed by technical arrangements to initiate full disarmament. Israeli sources familiar with the details said Hamas agrees to a plan involving the full dismantling of heavy and light arms, disclosure of tunnel sites, and strict monitoring mechanisms. They emphasized that any agreement would be "precise and detailed, without tricks or compromises."

However, the talks remain at a sensitive stage with no signed agreement or certainty that the discussed timelines will be met. Significant questions remain about implementation and verifying Hamas's compliance with its commitments.