Hamas Willing to Cede Power but Insists on Independence for Disarmament
Hamas’s Offer to Step Back from Governance
In a significant shift in stance, Hamas has expressed its willingness to hand over political power and administrative governance of the Gaza Strip to a Palestinian unity government. Dr. Basem Naim, a senior Hamas official, revealed to NBC News that the group is prepared to relinquish control, provided the governance is transferred to a capable body. This move comes amid a critical phase in the tenuous ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, which is set to expire on Saturday. Despite the urgency, no formal arrangements have been made to extend the truce, and publicly acknowledged negotiations have been scarce. Naim emphasized that Hamas remains committed to the ceasefire but accused Israel of intentionally delaying further negotiations to justify a return to conflict.
The Uncertain Future of the Ceasefire
The first phase of the ceasefire, brokered with the help of Qatar and Egypt, has seen the release of over 600 Palestinian prisoners by Israel, following Hamas’s handover of the remains of four Israeli hostages. However, the next phase of negotiations has stalled, with both sides accusing each other of violating the agreement’s terms. Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen has demanded that Israeli forces remain in the Philadelphi Corridor, a strategic area along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt, contradicting the ceasefire’s stipulation for withdrawal. This has raised concerns about Israel’s intentions to extend the truce or negotiate a more permanent ceasefire.
The Disarmament Dilemma
One of the most contentious issues in the negotiations is the question of Hamas’s disarmament. Naim reiterated that Hamas would only consider disarming and transitioning into a purely political party if an independent Palestinian state is established. This condition has been met with rejection from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government, who have prioritized the destruction of Hamas over the welfare of Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. Naim stressed that Hamas’sarmed resistance is a response to Israel’s ongoing occupation of Palestinian territories, including Gaza, the West Bank, and Jerusalem.
The Human Cost of the Conflict
The conflict has had devastating consequences for civilians on both sides. The October 7 attack by Hamas on southern Israel resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the kidnapping of 250 others. Israel’s subsequent 15-month war on Gaza has claimed the lives of at least 48,300 Palestinians, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry, and has left much of the enclave in ruins. Despite the immense human suffering, Netanyahu has made the destruction of Hamas a central objective of Israel’s military campaign, often at the expense of securing the release of Israeli hostages.
Preparations for Renewed Conflict
As the ceasefire’s first phase nears its end, both sides are bracing for the possibility of renewed fighting. Israeli military leaders have indicated their readiness to resume hostilities if the agreement collapses, with reservists already being called up for potential action. Naim, however, stated that Hamas remains committed to the ceasefire but is also preparing for all eventualities, including a return to war. "We have no choice other than to defend ourselves, as we have done already along the 15 months," he said.
The Role of International Mediation
The international community, particularly Qatar and Egypt, has played a crucial role in mediating the ceasefire and facilitating negotiations. However, their efforts have been hindered by the deep mistrust and competing demands of both sides. As the 출시 date for the ceasefire’s extension approaches, the lack of progress in negotiations raises concerns about the potential resurgence of violence and the continued suffering of civilians in Gaza. The international community must continue to pressure both sides to prioritize peace and work toward a resolution that addresses the root causes of the conflict.
