Khaled Meshaal Discusses Gaza Arms Talks: Prolonged Ceasefire and International Forces Proposed

Meshaal made these remarks during the 17th Al Jazeera Forum held in Doha, titled "The Palestinian Question and Regional Balances," where he called for urgent humanitarian action, including the provision of aid and housing to help residents return to normalcy.
Key Issues Awaiting Resolution
He indicated that the next phase will involve intricate discussions on several critical issues, including disarmament, the role of international forces, the future governance of Gaza, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops. Meshaal noted that Hamas, alongside other Palestinian factions, is working to develop political approaches based on a shared national vision to address these matters and restore stability in the region.
Recognition of the Palestinian State is Insufficient
Meshaal remarked that recent developments have challenged the Palestinian statehood issue on the international stage, but he stressed that political recognition alone does not provide a genuine solution unless it translates into practical realities that end the occupation and address the roots of the conflict. He asserted that the core of the crisis lies in the ongoing occupation, emphasizing that any political process must start from this point to achieve a comprehensive and lasting solution.
Hamas's Perspective on Arms Issues
Regarding the issue of arms among Palestinian factions, Meshaal stated that proposals for disarmament in the context of ongoing occupation represent an attempt to weaken the Palestinian people. He argued that resistance is a legitimate right of occupied peoples, as historical experiences have shown. He added that the movement has discussed this matter through regional mediators, including Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt, along with indirect contacts with the United States through mediation channels.
International Understanding and Proposals for Stability
Meshaal revealed that mediators have shown an understanding of Hamas's position on arms, indicating that there are ideas related to providing security guarantees instead of exerting political pressure. He specified that among the proposed measures is the deployment of international forces to maintain peace at the border, as well as a prolonged ceasefire that could last between five to ten years, aimed at stabilizing the situation and preventing renewed clashes.
Accusations Against Israel Regarding Disarmament
Meshaal accused Israel of attempting to disarm Palestinians, arguing that the fundamental issue is not the guarantees provided by factions but rather Israeli policies that, according to him, aim to create chaos within the Palestinian sphere.
Call for a More Balanced International Action
In conclusion, Meshaal called for a more objective international role in addressing the Palestinian issue, urging the United States and European countries to work on resolving the roots of the conflict without bias, which would contribute to achieving a comprehensive political settlement.
