Key facts
- Hamas has accepted a disarmament plan for Gaza, a decision welcomed by US President Donald Trump.
- The plan involves phased disarmament of Hamas and gradual Israeli withdrawal.
- A Palestinian National Committee and an International Stabilisation Force will oversee the process.
- Israel remains skeptical and insists on disarmament before withdrawal.
- The plan addresses the future of Hamas-aligned civil servants and requires Israeli withdrawal to a designated line.
Hamas has announced its acceptance of a disarmament plan for Gaza, a development described by US President Donald Trump as a 'monumental step toward lasting peace and security.' The decision follows an eight-month negotiation process and aims to end the ongoing conflict.
The plan, which includes a 15-point roadmap and a four-page document detailing phased disarmament, requires Hamas to inventory and store heavy weapons, military production sites, and tunnels. This process is conditional on Israel fulfilling its commitments under the initial October ceasefire agreement, including a phased withdrawal of its forces.
The disarmament will be overseen by the newly formed Palestinian National Committee, composed of technocrats, and an International Stabilisation Force (ISF). Hamas has agreed to hand over power to this committee. Remaining personal arms and police weapons would be registered and handed over in stages to a new Palestinian police force, with hundreds of recruits already trained. Israel's cabinet has approved the deployment of approximately 200 international troops for the ISF.
However, Israel remains highly skeptical of Hamas's willingness to disarm and relinquish control. National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has stated the plan is unacceptable, and Israeli officials insist they will not withdraw until Hamas is fully disarmed. Currently, Israeli forces control over 60% of Gaza, exceeding the area designated in the October ceasefire deal. The plan stipulates Israeli forces must withdraw to the agreed Yellow Line within 24 hours of government approval and not return as long as Hamas complies.
Hamas has also announced the dissolution of its government in Gaza and is preparing to transfer power to the National Committee. The plan includes provisions for the compensation and fair treatment of tens of thousands of civil servants previously employed by the Hamas government. Hamas's decision to accept the plan is attributed to intense pressure from regional mediators, Washington's push for progress, simplified decision-making under new leadership, and a perceived loss of hope in external support, alongside the devastating humanitarian conditions in Gaza.
Despite the announcement, enthusiasm in Gaza is muted, with many Palestinians expressing deep skepticism due to years of failed agreements. The region faces severe humanitarian challenges, including widespread displacement, disease, and shortages of food, water, and shelter. Since the last ceasefire, over 1,168 Palestinians and four Israeli soldiers have been killed, and an estimated 60 million tonnes of debris have been generated.