Cairo, Egypt – Web Desk: Hamas has refused to participate in disarmament negotiations until Israel guarantees a full military withdrawal from Gaza, according to sources familiar with the talks.
A delegation from Hamas met in Cairo with representatives from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey to present its demands and amendments. The group stated it will not discuss laying down arms unless there is clear assurance that Israeli forces will completely leave the Gaza Strip, a key component of the U.S.-proposed peace plan led by President Donald Trump.
Reuters reports that Hamas’ reluctance to disarm has become a major sticking point in efforts to implement the October ceasefire and give permanent effect to the proposed peace initiatives.
Egyptian sources and a Palestinian official told Reuters that the Hamas delegation outlined several conditions, including the cessation of Israeli violations, full compliance with all plan provisions, and complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Hamas insists Israel has repeatedly violated the ceasefire, resulting in hundreds of Palestinian deaths, while Israel maintains its operations are intended to prevent potential attacks.
The ongoing conflict, triggered by Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, led to a brutal Israeli bombing campaign. According to estimates, over 72,000 Palestinians—including women, children, and the elderly—have been killed, while Israeli casualties stand at roughly 1,200. The war has caused widespread famine in Gaza as Israel blocked external aid and supply routes. Most buildings have been destroyed, leaving millions displaced, many of whom have had to move multiple times.
Hamas’ stance poses a significant obstacle to diplomatic efforts, and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues to escalate.
