Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected any potential shift in Washington's position regarding Hamas disarmament, declaring that Israel will ensure the militant group is stripped of its weapons regardless of American policy changes.
US Considering Removal of Hamas Disarmament Requirement
Recent reports in Israeli media indicate the United States is contemplating removing the requirement for Hamas to disarm from President Donald Trump's 20-point Middle East peace proposal. According to The Times of Israel, the White House has encountered difficulties in securing international commitments for peacekeeping troops who would enforce Gaza's demilitarization.
Netanyahu delivered his strong response during his weekly cabinet meeting, stating unequivocally that "In the 20-point plan, and in any other case, this area will be demilitarized and Hamas will be disarmed — either the easy way or the hard way."
The Israeli leader emphasized that this position aligns with President Trump's own statements, asserting "That is what I have said, and that is what President Trump has also said."
Ceasefire Uncertainty and Conflicting Demands
The escalating tension comes amid persistent questions about the stability of the fragile Gaza ceasefire. Hamas has consistently maintained it will not surrender weapons or relinquish authority in Gaza until a clear pathway to Palestinian statehood is guaranteed—a condition Netanyahu continues to reject outright.
President Trump has repeatedly warned Hamas to disarm or face "severe consequences," emphasizing that an international coalition would be deployed to enforce Gaza's demilitarization under his peace proposal.
UN Security Council Vote Looms
Attention now turns to Monday's crucial UN Security Council vote, where member states will consider adopting Trump's peace deal. The draft resolution suggests that "the conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway" to Palestinian statehood once the current conflict concludes.
Meanwhile, Israeli media reports reveal that Israel is actively lobbying the United States and other UN Security Council members to soften the wording on Palestinian statehood within the resolution. Netanyahu reiterated his long-standing opposition to such a move, declaring "Our opposition to a Palestinian state anywhere west of the Jordan River exists, is firm, and has not changed whatsoever."
The situation is further complicated by reports indicating Hamas's popularity has risen in Gaza, creating additional challenges for Trump's plan to disarm the militants and establish lasting peace in the region.
