The Lead
Advanced negotiations are underway in Cairo for Hamas to announce its disarmament and transfer administrative control of the Gaza Strip to an international stabilization force, according to regional sources cited by Israeli media on Thursday. The developing framework reportedly involves mediation by Qatar and Turkey, with a potential signing ceremony in Egypt as early as the coming days.
Diplomatic Maneuvering in Cairo
Regional sources have confirmed to Channel 13 and other outlets that a senior Hamas delegation is currently in Cairo, operating under the auspices of Egyptian intelligence. The talks, which also involve Qatari and Turkish mediators, focus on a transition of power in the Gaza Strip following months of intensive IDF operations that have significantly degraded the terror group's military infrastructure.
According to these reports, the proposed agreement would see Hamas relinquish its weapons to a third party. Crucially, sources indicate that Hamas has agreed to bypass the Palestinian Authority (PA) in this transfer, opting instead for a different international or regional entity. While the broad strokes of the disarmament appear to be in place, sources noted that disputes remain over "minor" clauses in the agreement.
Strategic Context and External Pressure
The current push for a resolution follows months of signaling from Hamas regarding its willingness to dissolve its governing apparatus. As The Zioneer reported earlier this month, the group previously announced the dissolution of its "Governmental Activity Follow-up Committee" and expressed readiness to transfer authority to a local Peace Council. However, the current negotiations represent a more concrete step toward full disarmament, a demand Israel has maintained throughout the conflict.
Analysts suggest the timing of this breakthrough is linked to significant pressure from the Trump administration, which is reportedly pushing for a definitive announcement. This diplomatic activity coincides with reports that the IRGC (Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps) commander remains a key decision-maker for the group, highlighting the complex regional interests at play.
Outlook for the "Day After"
If finalized, the agreement would see the entry of an international stabilization force to manage the Strip's civilian and security affairs. This aligns with broader regional stabilization tracks, such as the U.S.-led 'Green City' project in Rafah. However, the transition remains fraught with uncertainty. Previous attempts at disarmament have faced hurdles over Hamas's demands for its 40,000 personnel and its historical resistance to centralizing weapons under a single authority. The coming days in Cairo will determine if these "minor" disputes can be resolved to facilitate a formal signing.
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