Hamas Talks Stall Over Refusal to Disarm

Negotiations on a ceasefire between Hamas and representatives of the Peace Council have reached an impasse, with Hamas refusing to disarm or move to the second phase of the agreement.

According to Palestinian sources cited by The Jerusalem Post, the militant group insists that it will give up its weapons only after the first phase has been fully implemented. The phase includes Israel’s withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and guarantees towards the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

Israel, however, reportedly refuses to withdraw behind the so-called yellow line in Gaza, where it maintains a strong military presence. The security source noted that “if Hamas does not disarm, the Israel Defense Forces will return to fighting in Gaza in the near future to complete the mission”.

According to Saudi media, the Hamas proposal also includes provisions on which weapons should be subject to disarmament, but details were not disclosed.

Israel’s security cabinet has already addressed the possibility of renewed fighting. A source familiar with the situation said Israel expects concrete steps towards disarming Hamas and establishing a new technocratic government.

(max)