Hamas Official States Group Cannot Commit to Disarmament, Seeks Interim Control in Gaza

Hamas intends to retain security control in Gaza during an interim period and cannot commit to disarmament, according to senior official Mohammed Nazzal. Speaking from Doha, Nazzal stated that the group's stance presents challenges to U.S. efforts aimed at ending the conflict.

Nazzal mentioned that Hamas is open to a ceasefire lasting up to five years to facilitate Gaza's reconstruction, with future guarantees contingent upon progress toward Palestinian statehood. He defended recent public executions carried out by Hamas in Gaza, describing them as "exceptional measures" during wartime, asserting that those executed were criminals guilty of killing.

The Israeli Prime Minister's Office responded by emphasizing Israel's commitment to the ceasefire agreement and urging Hamas to adhere to the 20-point plan, which includes disarmament and the release of all hostages. A statement from the office highlighted that Hamas has not fulfilled these obligations and is "running out of time."

U.S. President Donald Trump's plan, announced on September 29, calls for Hamas to return all hostages, disarm, and transfer governance of Gaza to a technocratic committee under international oversight. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supports this plan, aiming to dismantle Hamas's military capabilities and political rule to prevent future threats from Gaza.

Nazzal indicated that discussions on disarmament involve not only Hamas but also other armed Palestinian groups, requiring a broader consensus among Palestinians. He also noted that Hamas has no interest in retaining the bodies of deceased hostages from the October 7, 2023 attacks and is encountering technical difficulties in recovering more bodies, suggesting that international parties like Turkey or the U.S. could assist in the search.

Regarding governance, Nazzal stated that during the transitional phase, a technocratic administration would be established, with Hamas maintaining a presence on the ground to ensure security. He emphasized the need for elections following this period and expressed that the Palestinian people desire an independent state.