A new US-backed ceasefire proposal has renewed hopes for ending the Gaza conflict, with Hamas expressing willingness to begin a phased disarmament process. However, Israel has reiterated that it will not withdraw its military forces until it is satisfied that Hamas has undergone genuine and verifiable disarmament.
The differing positions underline the significant political and security challenges that continue to stand in the way of a lasting peace agreement.
Hamas Signals Willingness to Begin Disarmament
According to the proposed framework, Hamas has agreed in principle to begin a gradual process of disarming under international mediation.
However, the group says its heavy weapons would only be surrendered during a later phase of the agreement and under broader political conditions, including the establishment of a Palestinian state.
That condition remains unacceptable to Israel's current government, creating one of the largest obstacles to implementing the proposal.
Israel Maintains Firm Security Position
Israeli officials have stressed that military withdrawal from Gaza will occur only after genuine disarmament has been verified.
According to officials familiar with the negotiations, Israel believes that dismantling Hamas' military infrastructure—including rockets, tunnels and heavy weaponry—is a prerequisite for any lasting ceasefire.
Israeli leaders have also expressed concern that incomplete disarmament could allow Hamas to rebuild its military capabilities.
Ceasefire Planned in Multiple Phases
The proposed agreement outlines a gradual roadmap rather than an immediate end to the conflict.
The framework reportedly includes:
- Phased Hamas disarmament
- Gradual Israeli military withdrawal
- Deployment of an International Stabilisation Force
- Establishment of a Palestinian technocratic administration
- Restoration of civilian governance in Gaza
- Long-term reconstruction of the territory
Each stage would depend on successful completion of the previous phase.
Trump Announces Structured Peace Framework
US President Donald Trump announced the proposed agreement, stating that implementation would occur through "carefully structured phases."
According to the proposal, Israeli troop withdrawals would proceed alongside verified security commitments, while international peacekeeping mechanisms would help maintain stability during the transition.
The agreement is reportedly supported by mediators including the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye.
Disarmament Could Take Months
Officials involved in the negotiations indicate that the process is expected to unfold gradually.
Early stages would reportedly involve the transfer of weapons held by Hamas-run police forces, while dismantling heavy weapons, military infrastructure and tunnel networks could take between 200 and 350 days, depending on implementation.
The timeline remains subject to negotiations and security verification.
Political Challenges Remain
Despite cautious optimism from mediators, significant political hurdles continue to complicate the agreement.
For Hamas, surrendering weapons represents a major ideological shift after decades of armed resistance.
For Israel, domestic political considerations and upcoming elections make major concessions particularly sensitive.
Analysts believe both sides remain cautious about committing to irreversible steps without strong guarantees.
Humanitarian Situation Remains Severe
Large areas of Gaza remain heavily damaged after nearly three years of conflict.
Millions of civilians continue to face:
- Displacement
- Damaged infrastructure
- Limited access to essential services
- Humanitarian challenges
- Ongoing reconstruction needs
International organisations say rebuilding Gaza will require sustained political stability and long-term international support.
Key Highlights
- Hamas has indicated willingness to begin phased disarmament.
- Israel says troop withdrawal depends on verified demilitarisation.
- The US-backed proposal includes gradual implementation.
- International mediators are supporting negotiations.
- Heavy weapons would reportedly be surrendered during later phases.
- Political disagreements continue to delay full implementation.
FAQs
Has Hamas agreed to disarm?
Hamas has indicated willingness to participate in a phased disarmament process under the proposed agreement, although it says heavy weapons would be addressed later in the process.
Will Israel withdraw immediately from Gaza?
No. Israeli officials say troop withdrawals will occur only after genuine disarmament has been verified.
Who is mediating the negotiations?
The negotiations are reportedly being supported by the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Türkiye.
How long could disarmament take?
Officials involved in the negotiations estimate that complete implementation could take 200 to 350 days, depending on progress and verification.
Why is the agreement difficult to implement?
Major disagreements remain over sequencing, security guarantees, political recognition, governance arrangements and verification mechanisms.
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