In a recent statement, Hamas declared its readiness to proceed with the US-backed Gaza peace plan, urging the United States to pressure Israel into fulfilling its part of the agreement. Israel, however, has not agreed to the latest component of the deal, according to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The proposed plan involves Hamas handing over weapons to a Palestinian governing committee, contingent on Israel's phased withdrawal from Gaza.
A Hamas official, who requested anonymity, emphasized that all factions involved have confirmed their readiness to begin implementing the agreement and transition to the second phase, provided Israel agrees and starts implementing its part of the deal. The official also urged the US administration to exert pressure on Israel to abide by the agreement.
US President Donald Trump hailed the agreement as a breakthrough, with the Board of Peace announcing that Israel would carry out a phased withdrawal from much of Gaza. However, the Board's high representative for Gaza, Nickolay Mladenov, later clarified that Israel would withdraw only after a full disarmament by Hamas.
Despite the agreement, Israel's military continues to target Hamas, responsible for the deadliest attack against Israel in October 2023. The recent operations in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of 1,257 Palestinians and five Israeli soldiers, according to the territory's health ministry and the Israeli army, respectively.
The ongoing conflict has significant implications for regional stability and peace efforts, highlighting the complexities and challenges in achieving a lasting resolution in the region.
