Israel Warns Hamas May Only Rebrand Despite New Gaza Agreement Backed by Trump
The Israeli military announced the elimination of a Hamas terrorist linked to the killings of Romi Gonen and Bnoa Marciano. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump quickly praised a new framework aimed at "disarmament," a "day after," and a "deal" concerning Gaza. However, Israeli officials and observers express deep skepticism about the agreement's substance, warning it may represent merely a repackaging of Hamas's power rather than its dismantling.
The core issue lies in the ambiguity of the agreement, with each party interpreting it differently: Trump views it as a diplomatic success, mediators see it as a stabilization effort, Hamas considers it a way to preserve its core strength under new terms, and Israel fears it could lead to partial disarmament and indirect Hamas control. Key unresolved questions include who controls weapons, enforcement, aid distribution, and the role of Hamas members in the new civilian administration.
Israel stresses that without a clear and genuine dismantling of Hamas's military and political infrastructure, including weapons, funding, personnel, tunnels, enforcement bodies, and foreign leadership, the so-called "day after" will be illusory. Hamas could maintain its influence covertly, continuing to wield power through armed operatives, social aid networks, and intimidation, effectively transforming rather than ending its rule.
Israeli officials emphasize the need for a rigorous agreement that Hamas cannot easily accept or spin as a victory. While Israel and Gaza both need a viable alternative to ongoing conflict, any deal must translate military and intelligence gains into a new civilian and security framework. The current moment, with Hamas reportedly weaker and more isolated than a year ago, offers a critical opportunity that must not be squandered on vague formulas.
In summary, Israel remains cautious about the new Gaza arrangement, warning that without concrete steps to dismantle Hamas's capabilities, the group will simply rebrand itself, perpetuating the same threats under a different guise.
