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

Opinion & Analysis

By Yousef Ibrahim Barjas Alta'any

Many people will see the recent announcement that Hamas is prepared to step away from governing Gaza and assume that the conflict is moving towards a peaceful conclusion. In my view, that interpretation overlooks one of the most important issues still preventing a lasting peace.

While Hamas has indicated a willingness to transfer Gaza's civilian administration to another Palestinian body, it has not agreed to surrender its weapons or dissolve its military wing. I believe that distinction is essential to understanding the current situation.

In my opinion, the most important question is not who governs Gaza, but whether Hamas is willing to give up its military capabilities. As long as Hamas remains armed, I believe the conditions that have contributed to repeated cycles of violence have not been fully addressed.

I believe that if Hamas does not disarm, there remains a serious risk of future armed attacks and renewed conflict. My concern is that civilians—both Palestinians and Israelis—could once again suffer the consequences. The events of 7 October 2023 demonstrated the devastating human cost that such violence can have, and I believe every effort should be made to reduce the risk of similar tragedies occurring again.

For that reason, I do not believe lasting peace can be achieved unless Hamas disarms. In my view, transferring Gaza's civilian administration to another body is a positive step, but it does not resolve the central issue if Hamas continues to retain its military capabilities.

Israel's approval, in principle, of an international stabilisation force represents an opportunity to move towards greater stability. I believe Hamas should seize that opportunity by laying down its arms and allowing the people of Gaza to move forward. In my opinion, disarmament would give the people of Gaza a greater opportunity to receive humanitarian assistance, rebuild their communities, reduce their suffering, and create a better future for the next generation.

My message is directed especially to those who continue to support Hamas. I ask you to consider whether Gaza can truly move forward while Hamas remains an armed organisation. In my opinion, the attacks of 7 October 2023 and the war that followed brought immense suffering to both Israelis and Palestinians. I believe that as long as Hamas retains its weapons, there will continue to be a risk of renewed conflict, and the people of Gaza will struggle to achieve the peace, security, and rebuilding they deserve.

I believe the people of Gaza deserve the opportunity to determine a different future—one focused on reconstruction, education, economic opportunity, and safety rather than continued war. In my view, that requires Hamas to disarm and allow a different path forward.

I also believe the voices of ordinary Palestinians matter. Those who genuinely want peace should be able to call for an end to armed conflict and encourage Hamas to disarm so Gaza can rebuild, receive humanitarian assistance, and offer hope to future generations.

My hope is simple: that one day Palestinians and Israelis can live without fear, violence, or war. In my opinion, that goal cannot be achieved while armed groups continue to operate in Gaza. Until Hamas makes a clear and verifiable commitment to disarm, I believe the central obstacle to lasting peace remains unresolved.

The question that remains is simple: Will Hamas choose to disarm and give the people of Gaza the opportunity to rebuild 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.

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