INTERNATIONAL — February 17, 2026
Senior Hamas Leader Rejects Disarmament Ultimatum
A senior Hamas leader rejected a disarmament ultimatum from mediating countries and reaffirmed commitment to armed struggle until Palestinian independence. He accused Israel of ceasefire violations aimed at displacing Palestinians.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Bakhtar News — 2 min read

Mahmoud Mardawi, a senior Hamas leader, rejected an ultimatum for disarmament issued by mediating countries during a recent interview with Al Jazeera.
Mardawi stated that Hamas had not received any official notice of a deadline for disarming the resistance in the Gaza Strip. He emphasized that the group remains committed to its armed struggle until a fully independent Palestinian state is established and the occupation ends. "The struggle is not merely about weapons; it’s a fight for our rights and our land," Mardawi declared.
He also highlighted what he described as repeated violations of the ceasefire by the Israeli regime in both Gaza and the West Bank. Mardawi claimed these actions indicate a broader plan to forcibly displace Palestinian residents.
Mardawi's statements come amid escalating tensions in the region, raising questions about the future of peace negotiations.
Read the original reporting at Bakhtar News →
Reliability assessment
Single source provides direct quotes from named senior Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi in a verifiable Al Jazeera interview, offering concrete, on-record attribution.
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International — Hamas, Mahmoud Mardawi, Gaza, Palestine, Al Jazeera
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