Hamas, Palestinian factions agree to hand over heavy weapons to NCAG, contingent on full Israeli withdrawal

Hamas and the Palestinian factions in Gaza have clarified the scope of their proposed disarmament, identifying specific categories of "heavy weaponry" for eventual transfer to the NCAG. According to reports from Moriah Asraf, Doron Kadosh, and Amichai Stein, the arsenal slated for handover includes anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), long-range rockets, heavy-caliber anti-aircraft guns, and 120mm mortars.

However, the terror organization explicitly excludes light weaponry from this arrangement. Hamas intends to retain possession of RPGs, rifles, and all military infrastructure, including tunnels, warehouses, and factories. This selective disarmament model directly challenges the "one authority, one weapon" principle sought by international mediators and the Israeli security establishment.

Conditions for Implementation

The agreement to discuss these transfers is tied to a rigid list of preconditions. Hamas demands a total cessation of all forms of Israeli military activity and a complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip. Furthermore, the group insists on the dismantling of what it terms "armed militias established by the occupation"—a reference to local Palestinian security entities or groups cooperating with Israel.

Additional requirements include the entry of an international stabilization force (ISF), the full reconstruction of the Strip, and a guaranteed path toward an independent Palestinian state. As The Zioneer reported on Friday, these demands reinforce Hamas's strategy of leveraging its arsenal for maximalist political gains rather than accepting a "zero trust" demilitarization.

Security Implications

For the Israeli defense establishment, the retention of light arms and tunnel infrastructure remains a critical friction point. While the handover of long-range rockets would reduce the immediate threat to the Israeli home front, the preservation of the "Gaza Metro" and small-arms production capabilities would allow Hamas to maintain internal control and potentially reconstitute its military power. The demand for the dismantling of Israeli-linked local groups further suggests an effort by Hamas to ensure no domestic rivals remain after an IDF withdrawal.