Efforts to move the Gaza ceasefire process forward have taken a new turn, with Hamas announcing that it has accepted an agreement involving the transfer of its weapons to a Palestinian governing body and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory.
The announcement is linked to the next stage of a ceasefire framework backed by United States President Donald Trump, who described the development as a significant step and said it included commitments toward Hamas’ disarmament.
Israel has not officially responded to the announcement, but an Israeli political source said there would be no withdrawal of troops from their current positions unless Hamas carries out what was described as genuine disarmament.
The proposal has also faced opposition from some members of Israel’s government. Far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir criticised the agreement, warning that it could allow Hamas to rebuild its military capabilities.
The question of Hamas’ weapons has remained one of the biggest obstacles to implementing the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, which has been in effect since October.
Hamas negotiator Ghazi Hamad said the group accepted compromises in what he described as an effort to protect Palestinians in Gaza. He said the responsibility for overseeing disarmament would rest with the National Committee for Administration of Gaza, rather than Israel.
The group also called on mediators and Trump’s proposed Board of Peace to ensure that Israel fulfils its commitments, including the withdrawal of forces from Gaza.
President Trump said Friday that Israel was satisfied with the understanding reached, adding that both sides were moving toward implementation of the agreement.
However, violence has continued despite the ceasefire. Gaza health officials reported that Israeli strikes on Thursday killed at least four people, including two children.
Under the latest arrangement, military operations are expected to stop immediately, while an International Stabilization Force would serve as a buffer between Israeli troops and areas controlled by the Gaza administration committee.
