On July 31, 2026, President Donald Trump announced a tentative agreement with Hamas for the group to disarm in Gaza, nine months after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire. The deal includes Hamas turning over police weapons and eventually decommissioning heavier arms, contingent on Israel halting attacks and withdrawing. While Trump labeled it a "great breakthrough," Israel has not yet responded.
The disarmament agreement outlines a phased and monitored roadmap to end military operations and transition governance. Key points include Hamas and Israel ceasing military actions, with verification by the International Verification Committee (IVC) before progressing through phases. Governance and security will transfer to the newly established National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), which will also oversee financial audits and reconstruction efforts. A disarmament plan mandates the removal and storage of weapons, military infrastructure, and tunnels, with support and monitoring by an International Stabilization Force (ISF). Militias’ weapons will be surrendered to NCAG, which will also regulate personal arms. The ISF will maintain security, train local police, and supervise humanitarian aid delivery. Israel will withdraw in phases, coordinated with milestones in disarmament and NCAG's territorial control. Reconstruction and governance reform will be internationally supported, with a focus on legal compliance and restoring civil services.
The agreement sets the foundation for political normalization, Palestinian statehood aspirations, and long-term peace. However, challenges remain, including Hamas's commitment to disarmament and Israel's skepticism about the group's intentions. The success of the deal depends on the cooperation of all parties involved and the effective implementation of the outlined phases.
As the situation develops, it is crucial to monitor the responses of Israel, Hamas, and the international community to assess the viability and impact of the agreement.