Hamas Says Ready to Go Ahead with Gaza Plan, Urges Pressure on Israel

Hamas has signaled its readiness to move forward with a US-backed peace plan for Gaza, a move that comes amid ongoing disputes with Israel over the terms of the agreement. The militant group has communicated to mediators its commitment to the plan, which includes the disarmament of Hamas and the handover of weapons to a nascent Palestinian governing committee in the war-torn territory.

“

Hamas and other factions have confirmed to mediators their readiness to begin implementing the agreement and move to the second phase, provided it receives Israeli approval and that Israel begins implementing the agreement.

A Hamas official, speaking anonymously, stated that the group and other factions have confirmed their readiness to implement the agreement. However, they stressed that this is contingent upon Israeli approval and the commencement of Israel's implementation of the deal. Hamas is actively urging the US administration to apply pressure on Israel to ensure compliance and facilitate the progression to the second phase of the plan.

“

Hamas is urging the US administration to exert pressure on Israel to compel it to abide by the agreement and move to the second phase.

This stance sharply contrasts with Israel's position. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, facing domestic political challenges, has publicly stated that Israel has not agreed to the "draft" presented. The Board of Peace's representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, clarified that Israel's withdrawal from Gaza would only occur after Hamas completes its full disarmament. Despite these disagreements, Israeli operations in Gaza have reportedly decreased in intensity in recent days, though the military maintains its vow to continue targeting Hamas, which was responsible for the October 7, 2023 attacks.

“

Israel had not agreed to the "draft" presented by the Board of Peace.