The White House and President Trump's Board of Peace are reportedly optimistic that Hamas may agree to a deal to disarm and demilitarize the Gaza Strip, according to four sources familiar with the discussions. A signed agreement would mark a significant step in the implementation of Trump's 20-point Gaza peace plan, although Hamas has not yet approved the deal, and skepticism remains among Israeli officials and Western diplomats regarding the group's commitment to follow through.
The disarmament of Hamas is a crucial condition for the establishment of a new Palestinian technocratic government and the commencement of reconstruction efforts in Gaza, which has seen extensive destruction during the two-year conflict. Currently, many of Gaza's 2 million residents are living in tents or makeshift shelters, and while aid is entering the region, the humanitarian situation remains critical. The Hamas-controlled Gaza Health Ministry reports that nearly 1,200 Palestinians have died since the ceasefire on October 10, 2025, including both militants and civilians.
The U.S.-led Board of Peace, along with mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, have been negotiating a 15-point plan aimed at demilitarizing Gaza and transferring authority to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG). Hamas has been resistant to disarmament while seeking to maintain its military capabilities. However, U.S. officials believe that external pressures and Hamas' financial difficulties may lead the group to accept the agreement soon.
Negotiations are taking place in El Alamein, Egypt, and have reached advanced stages, though Hamas has yet to finalize its approval. Intense pressure from regional players, particularly Egypt, has been applied to encourage Hamas to sign the agreement. In contrast, Iran has reportedly advised Hamas to delay any agreement.
The proposed agreement emphasizes a unified governance structure in Gaza, with plans for the decommissioning of all weapons over six to eight months. Hamas would be required to disclose its military infrastructure, and a new Palestinian police force would be established under NCAG control. The agreement also includes provisions for Israeli withdrawal to the 'Yellow Line' and a halt to targeted actions against Hamas members, contingent on compliance with the disarmament process.
Despite ongoing negotiations, Israeli officials remain doubtful about Hamas' intentions, suspecting that the group may be seeking a temporary reprieve from current pressures. The discussions have also been coordinated with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has expressed support for the ongoing negotiations.