Widespread Anger in Gaza as Hamas Considers Disarmament Amid Ongoing Conflict

Recent reports of Hamas's willingness to disarm and relinquish its governing powers in Gaza, described by some Arab states as an end to the conflict, have sparked anger rather than relief among Gaza residents. Amid the rubble and tents, many feel betrayed and question the purpose of the October 7 offensive that led to massive destruction and loss of life.

Details of the disarmament agreement remain unclear, with Israel and Hamas holding conflicting conditions: Israel demands disarmament before troop withdrawal, while Hamas insists on Israeli withdrawal first. Hamas official Razi Hamad described the agreement as a "comprehensive framework" contingent on Israel fulfilling prior commitments from a 2023 deal in Sharm el-Sheikh, including halting attacks, withdrawing forces to October positions, and increasing aid flow. Only then would Hamas transfer weapons to the technocratic National Committee for Gaza's management.

Despite Hamas leaders abroad portraying the move as a sacrifice for the people, Gaza's public remains deeply skeptical and pessimistic. Unlike previous ceasefire announcements that sparked celebrations, this time there is no visible hope or joy. Residents report ongoing Israeli airstrikes and military operations, doubting any imminent peace. Journalist Sami Mushtaha condemned international talk of "relief," calling it hollow after tens of thousands of civilian deaths.

Influential Gaza voices, including social media figures like Mustafa al-Banna, criticize Hamas's decision as a dangerous maneuver and question the war's purpose if it ends with surrendering hostages and weapons. Dr. Eizo mocked Hamas's framing of disarmament as sacrifice after massive casualties and infrastructure destruction. Meanwhile, Hamas-affiliated figures defend the group's limited military capabilities and resistance against American imperialism and Zionism.

Criticism also targets Hamas's leadership, especially military chief Yahya Sinwar, accused of launching the October 7 attack without informing allies, leaving Gaza isolated against Israel's retaliation. Arab analysts view these developments as signaling Hamas's collapse. Gaza faces a bleak moment marked by exhaustion, fear of continued fighting, and a painful reckoning with Hamas's rule. Hours after US President Donald Trump announced the disarmament deal, medical sources in Gaza reported injuries from Israeli airstrikes, underscoring ongoing hostilities.