Hamas says it has agreed to a deal aimed at ending the war in Gaza, including provisions covering its weapons and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces.
US President Donald Trump announced the agreement on Thursday, describing it as a major step towards lasting peace and security.
Trump said the plan would involve the “complete disarmament” of Hamas and other armed groups operating in Gaza.
However, the agreement remains a framework that must still be implemented in phases.
Israel had not formally confirmed its acceptance of the latest terms when the announcement was made.
Weapons remain key sticking point
Hamas’s weapons have been one of the biggest obstacles to advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
Under the reported plan, weapons and military infrastructure would be transferred or placed under the control of a new Palestinian administration and international mediators.
Hamas negotiating team member Ghazi Hamad said the movement was making concessions to protect Palestinians from further death and displacement.
He said Hamas expected mediators and the Board of Peace to ensure that Israel met its commitments.
Hamad also insisted that Israel would not control the disarmament process.
Israeli forces could withdraw
Trump said Israeli forces would gradually withdraw from Gaza as the disarmament process progressed.
The plan also envisages a new Palestinian technocratic administration taking responsibility for governing the territory.
An international stabilisation force and a new Palestinian police service would reportedly help provide security.
Key details remain unresolved, including the timeline for surrendering weapons and dismantling Hamas’s tunnel network.
Reports suggest that full implementation could take several months and would require independent verification.
Deal faces major hurdles
The announcement could represent a significant step towards ending the conflict, but there is no guarantee that the plan will succeed.
Previous ceasefire negotiations have been delayed by disputes over disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawals and Gaza’s future government.
Israel has repeatedly demanded the complete demilitarisation of Gaza.
Hamas has previously resisted giving up its weapons without guarantees of a permanent Israeli withdrawal.
Further negotiations involving the United States, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey are expected.
Until all sides approve and implement the framework, the ceasefire and Gaza’s long-term political future remain uncertain.
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