World | By Haris S.Qureshi
GAZA CITY — Hamas says it remains prepared to proceed with the latest phase of the proposed Gaza peace plan, calling on the United States to pressure Israel to implement the agreement and move negotiations forward.
The statement comes as diplomatic efforts intensify to end months of fighting, with mediators attempting to bridge differences over security arrangements, Israeli troop withdrawals and Gaza’s future governance.
Hamas Signals Readiness
A Hamas official said the group and other Palestinian factions have informed mediators that they are ready to begin implementing the next stage of the agreement, provided Israel also commits to its obligations. Under the proposed framework, Hamas would hand over its weapons to a new Palestinian governing committee as part of a broader political transition.
Israel Remains Cautious
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has maintained that Israel has not accepted the latest draft presented by the U.S.-backed Board of Peace, insisting that Hamas must be fully disarmed before any permanent withdrawal from Gaza can take place.
The differing positions remain one of the biggest obstacles to a final agreement.
Mediators Continue Their Efforts
The United States and regional mediators are continuing discussions aimed at breaking the deadlock.
Negotiators hope that progress on the Gaza framework could reduce violence, improve humanitarian access and lay the foundation for post-war governance in the territory.
Why It Matters
Hamas’ renewed declaration of support keeps diplomacy alive at a critical moment.
However, with Israel still disputing key elements of the proposal, the success of the peace plan will depend on whether both sides can bridge deep disagreements over disarmament, security guarantees and the future administration of Gaza.