Hamas Faces Survival Crisis, Must Surrender Weapons to Continue Politically, Former IDF General Says

A recent meeting between Jared Kushner, Steve Wittkoff, and Hamas leadership highlights a significant shift in Hamas's strategic thinking. According to reports, Kushner presented a firm ultimatum reflecting President Trump's plan: while the U.S. opposes the expulsion of Gaza residents, it demands complete disarmament of Hamas as a prerequisite for any political or civilian progress. The message to Hamas was clear, political integration in Israel is impossible as long as the group retains its weapons, and Israel remains united on this stance.

This meeting and Hamas's acceptance of these terms indicate a deep change in the organization's mindset. Hamas, traditionally reliant on support from Tehran, Doha, and Ankara, now recognizes its dependence on the United States and the heavy price it must pay to survive: relinquishing its arms, surrendering exclusive control over Gaza's civilian population, and submitting to American directives. The group's urgent request to halt targeted killings of its operatives signals distress and a sense of encirclement.

Israeli military and intelligence agencies continue to pressure Hamas through targeted operations, while the U.S. offers a lifeline contingent on full disarmament. Former IDF Brigadier General (res.) Hanan Gefen advises Israel to maintain military pressure to prevent Hamas from regrouping under diplomatic cover. Intelligence efforts must focus on uncovering Hamas's covert civilian control mechanisms, secret funding channels, hidden weapons caches, and attempts to dominate humanitarian aid distribution.

Gefen stresses that Israel must never compromise on justice for the October 7 attacks. Regardless of any future disarmament or political arrangements, Israel has a historical, moral, and security obligation to continue eliminating all perpetrators involved in the massacre, rape, and kidnappings. These targeted killings are non-negotiable and will persist relentlessly until the last terrorist is neutralized. Hamas must understand that no diplomatic deal or American plan will grant immunity to those responsible for Israeli bloodshed.