Hamas Rejects U.S.-Backed Disarmament Proposal Without Palestinian State Guarantee

Hamas has formally rejected a United States-backed phased disarmament proposal for Gaza, stating that the group will not surrender its weapons without a firm guarantee of an independent Palestinian state and the right to self-determination. The movement’s leadership emphasized that any disarmament process must be directly linked to a clear political pathway toward statehood, rejecting interim arrangements that do not address long-term sovereignty.

In a recent statement, Hamas officials accused Israeli forces of violating the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement established in October. The group cited ongoing military operations, territorial expansion in eastern Gaza, and a reduction in humanitarian aid deliveries as evidence of the breach, calling for immediate compliance with the original terms.

Diplomatic sources familiar with the negotiations indicate that while a resolution remains achievable, progress has been stalled by competing international priorities and unresolved disputes. Officials noted that broader geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Iran, have diverted diplomatic attention from the Gaza talks. Additionally, fundamental disagreements persist regarding future security arrangements, governance structures in the territory, and the role of armed factions in a post-conflict framework.

The Cairo-mediated proposal outlines a gradual handover of weapons in exchange for phased concessions. Negotiators continue to seek a compromise that addresses both security concerns and long-standing political demands, though diplomatic channels report that discussions remain at an impasse pending clearer commitments on sovereignty and governance.