US President Donald Trump said mediators and Hamas leaders reached a phased disarmament agreement during talks in Cairo. He described the development as a historic step toward peace in Gaza. However, Hamas and Israeli officials expressed differing views on the reported deal.
Hamas, Israel Respond To Reported Agreement
Trump announced the agreement in a social media post on Thursday. He said Hamas and other armed groups would disarm in phases. Moreover, he claimed the arrangement would support lasting peace and improve Israel’s security.
Trump also said Gaza would eventually come under a new Palestinian administration. According to him, the proposed government would work closely with the so-called Board of Peace.
However, a Hamas source told Reuters the agreement remains a draft. The source said heavy weapons would remain under the control of a future Palestinian administration. Furthermore, Hamas official Ghazi Hamad said disarmament would not begin before Israel withdraws from Gaza.
Israel Remains Sceptical Of Proposal
US officials acknowledged that Israel remains doubtful Hamas will surrender its weapons. Nevertheless, one US official expressed confidence that Hamas would honour the agreement.
Meanwhile, Israeli officials maintained their demand for Hamas’ complete disarmament. They said Israel also seeks the removal of all weapons from Gaza before any political process moves forward.
An Israeli official further stated that authorities had already rejected the reported proposal. According to the official, the 15-point document failed to meet Israel’s security requirements. As discussions continue, uncertainty remains over the agreement’s implementation and timeline.
