Despite Israel Approving an International Stabilization Force, Hamas Still Refuses to Disarm

العربية | English

Opinion & Analysis

By Yousef Ibrahim Barjas Alta'any (Yousef Altaany)

The recent Hamas decision to abandon power and to take up the leadership of Gaza will lead many to believe the war is under an end. I think that reading is wrong on one of the most important points that yet stands in the way of a permanent peace.

Hamas has said it would hand over Gaza's civilian government to another Palestinian entity but it has not said it would surrender weapons or disarm its military wing. I think this is what it takes to understand the situation we're in right now.

So in my view, the pivotal issue is not what government is going to rule Gaza, but whether Hamas is ready to abandon its armed forces. I don't think the causes of the cycles of violence have been properly addressed as long as Hamas remains armed.

I think the possibility of armed attacks and renewed fighting is not off the table as long as Hamas doesn't disarm. I fear that once again ordinary Palestinians and Israelis will suffer the consequences. The devastating human toll suffered in the events of 7 October 2023 has shown the effects of such violence and I believe that all steps must be taken to minimise the risk of further such tragedies.

Therefore, I do not think that lasting peace can be realized without the disarming of the Hamas. In my opinion, the handover of the civilian administration of Gaza to another institution is a positive development, but it will not solve the main problem if Hamas still maintains its military strength.

In principle, Israel has also approved an international stabilisation force, a step which could pave the way towards stability. I think that Hamas ought to take that chance – give up arms and let the people of Gaza get on with their lives. In my view, disarmament would provide the people of Gaza with a better chance of receiving humanitarian aid, rebuilding their communities, alleviating their suffering and building a better future for the next generation.

My message is particularly for the people still supporting Hamas. I ask you whether Gaza can live without Hamas as an armed group. So I ask you whether or not Gaza can take any forward step until Hamas is not an armed organisation.

I believe the events of 7 October 2023 and the ensuing war caused a lot of suffering for Israelis and Palestinians. As long as Hamas continues to maintain its arsenal of weapons, I see no reason for the people of Gaza not to face the constant threat of renewed war, and no reason why they should not continue to struggle for peace, security and rebuilding.

I feel the people of Gaza have the right to a future, not defined by war, but defined by reconstruction, education, economic opportunity and safety.

For my part, I believe that is a prerequisite for Hamas to do so, and give others a different route.

I also feel the voice of the common Palestinian is important. If anyone is truly concerned about peace, they can call for an end to armed conflict and press Hamas to disarm, enabling Gaza to rebuild and provide hope for future generations, while also providing humanitarian aid.

My wish is very simple: a day when Palestinians and Israelis can live without fear, violence, or war. With the presence of the armed groups in Gaza, I do not think that this can be achieved.

I believe that key issue to the future of peace is yet to be resolved, and that is Hamas' willingness to make a clear and verifiable commitment to disarmament.

The only question now is, will Hamas decide to disarm and allow the people of Gaza to reconstruct their future?

Sources

The following publicly available sources provide background information relevant to the events discussed in this article:

• Reuters – Hamas dissolves Gaza government, Israel dismisses move as "stunt" (6 July 2026)  – Reports Hamas's announcement that it would dissolve its de facto civilian government while not agreeing to disarm, and Israel's response that disarmament remains essential.

• Reuters – Israel to allow international force into Gaza, Israeli official says (26 July 2026) – Reports Israel's approval, in principle, of an International Stabilization Force as part of a post-war plan that includes the demilitarisation of Hamas.

  
  

Disclaimer

This article reflects the personal opinions and analysis of the author based on publicly available information at the time of writing. The opinions expressed are solely those of the author and are intended to contribute to public discussion. Copyright

© 2026 Yousef Ibrahim Barjas Alta'any. All rights reserved.

This article is the original work of the author. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, translated, or republished in any form without the prior written permission of the author, except for brief quotations used for commentary, criticism, news reporting, or academic review.

Opinion & Analysis

By Yousef Ibrahim Barjas Alta'any (Yousef Altaany)

العربية | English