International News: There appears to be a significant diplomatic shift aimed at ending the bloody conflict in Gaza, which has continued for more than one and a half years. According to a report by Saudi media outlet Asharq News, Hamas is now showing readiness to compromise on several contentious issues that were previously major obstacles to peace. Most notably, Hamas is reportedly considering partial disarmament, which has been Israel’s most critical demand throughout the conflict.
Mediated Talks Bring Hope; Israel Finds Relief
The report states that negotiations are underway with the mediation of Egypt and Qatar, where Hamas is discussing key proposals. These include preventing arms smuggling, shutting down weapons manufacturing facilities, and handing over existing arms to a third-party-controlled area. These potential steps are being viewed as a diplomatic breakthrough for Israel, as they directly address its long-standing security concerns regarding Hamas’ military capabilities.
U.S. Influence in Play: Trump Urges Hamas to Accept Ceasefire
A key turning point emerged when U.S. President Donald Trump publicly urged Hamas to agree to a proposed 60-day ceasefire. Trump also offered a U.S. guarantee that further negotiations would continue during the truce in pursuit of a permanent peace agreement. According to sources, Hamas has responded positively to the proposal, particularly appreciating the U.S. assurance of continued negotiations during the ceasefire period.
Is Hamas Really Ready to Disarm?
According to the Asharq News report, Hamas is actively considering a multi-point plan, which involves
- Stopping arms smuggling operations in Gaza,
- Closing down weapons production units, and
- Transferring existing weapons to a location with no Hamas presence.
There is also speculation that Hamas may agree to the symbolic exile of certain top leaders from Gaza, which could be a gesture to meet Israel’s demand of a complete leadership overhaul in the region.
However, Hamas Is Not Willing to Cede Power Completely
Despite these signs of flexibility, Hamas remains firm on retaining some control in Gaza. Israel has clearly stated that Hamas should have no role in Gaza’s post-war governance. In contrast, Hamas argues that it has the deepest understanding of Gaza's social fabric and security dynamics, and therefore it should retain control over law and order mechanisms within the territory.
Peace on the Horizon or Another Political Standoff?
While this diplomatic softening by Hamas raises hopes for a long-awaited peace in the region, it also triggers new questions about the political future of Gaza. Israel envisions a complete removal of Hamas from governance, whereas Hamas insists on remaining an active part of the territory's administration.
Now, all eyes are on Hamas’s formal response, which will likely determine whether Gaza is finally heading toward peace—or if the region is about to enter yet another phase of diplomatic deadlock.
