Features|Israel-Palestine conflictWill Hamas agree to hand over its weapons as part of a Gaza ceasefire deal?Negotiations over Hamas’s disarmament may emerge as a key obstacle to securing a permanent end to Israel’s war on Gaza.
## Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas
Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a United States-supported ceasefire deal . However, significant differences persist, particularly concerning the status of Hamas's weapons.
Israel requires Hamas to surrender all its weapons as a condition for ending the two-year conflict in Gaza. Additionally, Israel demands that Hamas relinquish governance of the Palestinian enclave and dissolve as an organization.
Hamas has publicly rejected calls to disarm but has shown a potential willingness in private discussions to consider the decommissioning of some of its offensive weapons.
Negotiations over the disarmament of Hamas could jeopardize the ceasefire . Historically, Israel and its allies have required Palestinian factions to abandon armed resistance as part of peace processes.
Hamas is unlikely to fully disarm, but it may consider surrendering certain offensive weapons. However, it is expected to retain small arms and a sophisticated tunnel network.
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a United States-supported ceasefire deal .
Hamas was the largest of several armed groups in Gaza before the conflict commenced on October 7, 2023. These groups have long committed to armed resistance, and their current status following extensive military operations remains uncertain.
Concerns exist that a power vacuum could emerge if Hamas is weakened, potentially leading to internal security challenges.
Hamas may be open to working with an interim task force responsible for overseeing a partial disarmament. This cooperation would depend on assurances that the task force will not engage in counterterrorism activities.
Despite ongoing conflict, Hamas is expected to maintain its influence and continue to attract new members. The organization is viewed by many as symbolic of resistance.
The sustainability of the ceasefire will rely on international actors, including the United States, managing Israel's demands and expectations.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
