U.S. Seeks to Disarm Hamas in Gaza Amid Ceasefire Negotiations
Israeli media outlet Kan reported on Sunday that the United States is actively seeking solutions to address the presence of Hamas fighters as part of a comprehensive ceasefire plan, which may involve relocating the group's leaders outside of the Gaza Strip.
The report indicated that there has been little progress regarding the situation of Hamas militants currently trapped in Rafah, located in the southern part of Gaza.
In related news, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz proposed the establishment of a multinational force, led by the United States, tasked with disarming and demilitarizing Hamas in the areas of Gaza still under its control.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated his government's strong stance against Hamas, stating during a cabinet meeting, "Gaza will be disarmed, and Hamas will be stripped of its weapons either the easy way or the hard way. I do not require external support or advice from anyone."
These remarks come as U.S. efforts continue to resolve the situation of approximately 100 Hamas fighters who remain trapped in underground tunnels in Rafah, which are currently under Israeli control.
This issue poses a significant obstacle to advancing to the next phase of the ceasefire agreement, as Israel insists that the trapped individuals must surrender and relinquish their weapons before being allowed to exit. Conversely, Hamas argues that Israel is using this condition as a pretext to delay further implementation of the ceasefire plan.
