Jerusalem: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has again vowed that Hamas will be disarmed and the Gaza Strip will be fully demilitarised, declaring that this remains a central goal of Israel’s security policy as international discussions continue on the future of Gaza.
Speaking at his weekly cabinet meeting, Netanyahu said Israel’s position “has not changed and will not change,” adding that Hamas will be forced to give up its weapons “the easy way or the hard way.” His remarks come at a sensitive moment, as the United Nations Security Council is preparing to vote on a U.S.-backed plan aimed at shaping Gaza’s post-war structure and stabilising the region.
Netanyahu also repeated his government’s long-held opposition to the creation of a Palestinian state west of the Jordan River, saying that such a state would be a direct threat to Israeli security. According to him, demilitarising Gaza and removing Hamas’ military capabilities are essential steps before any long-term political arrangement can be discussed.
The U.S. proposal currently on the table includes provisions for an international stabilisation force in Gaza and a framework for future governance.
However, reports suggest some differences between Washington and Jerusalem, particularly regarding the exact mechanisms of demilitarisation and who will supervise security on the ground.
Hamas has strongly rejected the emerging proposals, calling them “dangerous” and claiming that disarmament would strip Palestinians of their right to resist occupation. The group has also opposed any plan that includes foreign security forces operating inside Gaza.
The situation places all sides in a difficult position. Israel insists that demilitarisation is non-negotiable, while Hamas refuses to accept any process that weakens its authority or ability to fight. Meanwhile, the international community is pushing for a structure that can prevent further conflict and lead to humanitarian and political stability.
Despite the firm statements, analysts note that fully disarming Hamas will be extremely challenging. It would require extensive coordination, long-term monitoring and the cooperation of regional and global partners. There are also questions about who will govern Gaza during and after the transition, how civilian safety will be protected and how reconstruction will be managed.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the gap between the demands of Israel, the expectations of the international community and the rejection by Hamas appears to be widening. The coming days at the UN will likely determine whether a unified plan for Gaza is possible or whether the region will face another prolonged period of uncertainty.