Trump's Hamas Disarmament Plan Faces Collapse Amid Israeli Strikes and Political Disputes

President Donald Trump's recent plan to disarm Hamas is at risk of falling apart just days after its announcement due to ongoing Israeli military strikes in Gaza and escalating disagreements over the agreement's terms. The "Peace Council," established by Trump to oversee Gaza's post-conflict transition, released a 15-point plan last Friday aimed at dismantling Hamas's weapons and facilitating Israeli withdrawal. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Tuesday that Israel never agreed to the framework and will not withdraw its forces until Hamas is fully disarmed. Netanyahu also revealed that the U.S. sent a draft plan which he and his cabinet rejected, submitting their comments instead.

Tensions increased as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) continued strikes in Gaza, despite requests from Nikolay Mladenov, the Peace Council's senior envoy, to halt attacks. In response to the pressure, Israel tightened its strike approval process, requiring direct authorization from the IDF Chief of Staff for targeted assassinations. The Peace Council clarified on Monday that Israel would only retreat from the "yellow line" after Hamas's complete disarmament, a position conflicting with Hamas's expectations.

Hamas warned it would not agree to fully disarm all armed groups in Gaza nor honor the agreement if Israel persists with attacks on Palestinians. Mediators caution that Hamas may deliberately delay disarmament to maintain its power, while Israeli government members oppose any political concessions. Meanwhile, the IDF has expanded its control over Gaza territory from 53% to 70%.