Hamas Rejects Gaza Disarmament Amidst Ceasefire Standoff
Hamas Rejects Disarmament Proposal
Hamas has unequivocally rejected a proposal for the disarmament of Palestinian armed groups in Gaza, put forward by Nickolay Mladenov, a high representative for Gaza on the US-led Board of Peace. A senior Palestinian official, familiar with ongoing negotiations, indicated Hamas's stance, with the group reportedly accusing Mr Mladenov of bias towards Israel.
The disarmament framework was outlined by Mr Mladenov as part of the second phase of a ceasefire deal agreed between Hamas and Israel in October 2025. However, Hamas has communicated to regional mediators that it will not commence talks on this phase until Israel fully adheres to the initial terms of the agreement. Conversely, Israel maintains it will not proceed without progress on Hamas's disarmament.
The first phase of the peace plan facilitated a halt to hostilities, the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Nevertheless, deadlock has persisted since the US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff announced the commencement of phase two in mid-January. Phase two aims for a permanent cessation of the conflict, contingent on Gaza's demilitarisation and a complete Israeli withdrawal.
Conditions for Further Negotiations
Hamas officials have stressed that a clear timetable for Israel to fulfil its remaining obligations from phase one, alongside guarantees to halt Israeli violations, is required before any discussions on phase two can begin. They argue that the issue of weapons is linked to a comprehensive solution guaranteeing Palestinian self-determination, rather than partial arrangements. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the deployment of international protection forces to safeguard civilians.
Mr Mladenov previously informed the UN Security Council that the laying down of arms by militant actors would represent a decisive break from cycles of violence. However, Hamas and other factions reject linking all issues to disarmament without also addressing financial support for relief and recovery, asserting that Mr Mladenov's vision aligns too closely with the Israeli position.
