Donald Trump’s push for a lasting peace deal in Gaza faces a major obstacle over the question of Hamas disarmament. Hussam al-Astal, commander of the Israeli-backed Strike Force Against Terror militia in southern Gaza, told The Times of Israel that Hamas would not agree to surrender its weapons because doing so could threaten its control. Israel has made genuine Hamas disarmament a key condition for a lasting settlement and reconstruction, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly rejected parts of Trump’s proposed 15-point Gaza peace framework. With competing demands from Israel, Hamas and Palestinian factions, the path to a durable ceasefire remains uncertain.

Israel and Hamas continue to insist the other must make the first move towards disarmament and withdrawal

Israel has rejected Donald Trump’s 15-point Board of Peace framework, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insisting on full Hamas disarmament before