Hamas Agrees to Disarm in Gaza Under Multinational Oversight Amid Israeli Rejection
A significant shift is underway in the Palestinian camp as Hamas has agreed to hand over its weapons, a move described as surprising and far-reaching. The proposal involves a phased disarmament where Hamas militants would surrender arms in specific sectors, with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) simultaneously withdrawing from those areas. This exchange would continue until Hamas fully disarms and the IDF completes its withdrawal, based on pre-agreed timelines and geographic zones.
The weapons are to be handed over to a newly forming multinational force, currently being assembled with contributions from Morocco, Uganda, and other countries, aiming to deploy up to 5,000 troops. This force will operate under the authority of a Palestinian experts' government, replacing Hamas's control. Alongside this, a new Palestinian police force, funded by the United Arab Emirates and comprising 2,000 members, will replace Hamas's police, ensuring personal and employment security for former militants to deter a return to terrorism.
Hamas leaders have insisted on the destruction of their weapons to prevent their capture by the IDF, discussing methods such as melting or encasing them in concrete. The plan also includes dismantling pro-Israel militias armed by the security apparatus, aiming for sole legal armament under the new government. Hamas would be allowed to exist solely as a political party and participate in elections within the Palestinian Authority framework.
The peace council overseeing the plan emphasizes that this is a genuine commitment by Hamas, not a tactical ploy, with an implementation and verification body monitoring compliance. Despite the seriousness of the initiative, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected the roadmap presented by UN envoy Nikolay Mladenov, removing it from consideration shortly after its proposal. Meanwhile, the IDF has quietly reduced its military activities in Gaza since early August.
Palestinian analysts note Hamas's deteriorating position, with ongoing losses and diminished Iranian support, making the disarmament and political transition a pragmatic step. The initiative, supported by international mediators including the United States, aims to stabilize Gaza by replacing armed conflict with political engagement and security sector reform.
