Hamas and Armed Factions Agree to Disarm and Transfer Authority to UN-Recognized Government in Gaza

Nikolay Mladenov, CEO of the Peace Council, announced on Wednesday that Hamas and armed factions in Gaza have agreed to surrender their weapons and transfer full civil and security authority to a government recognized by the United Nations. This development follows the Israeli Security Cabinet's approval last month of a pilot program to introduce the Peace Council into Gaza as part of a broader effort to restore basic services, humanitarian aid, and civilian infrastructure in areas outside Hamas control.

The pilot phase will begin in the Rafah area, where temporary housing units will be established for Palestinian residents, alongside the resumption of essential services and humanitarian assistance. Residents wishing to live in these areas will undergo strict security screening to ensure they are not affiliated with Hamas or other terrorist organizations. The Security Cabinet also approved the deployment of an international stabilization force in Gaza to support the program's implementation.

During the Security Cabinet discussion, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich expressed support for the initiative, while Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir opposed it. The plan aims to gradually reduce Hamas's control and improve living conditions in Gaza through international cooperation and oversight.