Israeli Government Rejects Peace Council's Proposal to Grant Amnesty to Hamas Militants

A dispute has emerged between Israel's political leadership and the Peace Council regarding a controversial clause about amnesty and immunity for Hamas militants willing to disarm. The Peace Council proposes financial grants and pardons for Hamas members who agree to lay down their arms as part of a disarmament plan. Israeli officials strongly reject this interpretation, emphasizing that no immunity will be granted to those who have murdered Jews.

The Peace Council bases its stance on a 20-point agreement signed in October 2025 by Israel and the United States under President Donald Trump. This agreement states that after all hostages are returned, Hamas militants who commit to peaceful coexistence and disarmament will receive amnesty. However, the clause's application to militants involved in the October 7 massacre remains unclear, with the Peace Council arguing this should have been clarified before the agreement was signed.

Israeli authorities insist the amnesty applies only after complete disarmament and does not cover individuals proven to have committed terrorist acts against Israelis. The controversy has sparked criticism within the Israeli cabinet and from bereaved families, who demand Prime Minister Netanyahu halt the Peace Council's plan. The debate highlights tensions over how to handle Hamas militants amid ongoing security concerns in Gaza.