Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has demanded that Hamas disarm before any new ceasefire can be reached, raising concerns about the potential for prolonged conflict and human costs. This demand is not surprising, as most Israelis support demilitarizing and eliminating Hamas. However, it is shocking considering a majority of Israelis also prioritize ending the war in exchange for a hostage deal, even if it means Hamas survives.
The proposal has little chance of success due to Hamas’s history of refusing disarmament offers. The only example of a militia disarming was the Lebanese Forces, which complied with the Taif Agreement and transitioned into a political party after Lebanon’s civil war ended in 1990. Hezbollah remains armed to this day.
In other parts of the Middle East, such as Iraq and the West Bank, disarmament efforts have been met with partial or complete failure. Even successful cases often require years of sustained support.
Without a credible political settlement, Hamas is unlikely to disarm, making Netanyahu’s proposal an obstacle to peace. The conflict continues to grind on, putting ordinary Palestinians and Israeli families in harm’s way due to the ongoing war and blockade.
As the situation unfolds, it remains unclear whether Netanyahu’s demand will be met or if the hostages will remain at risk. One thing is certain: any attempt to disarm Hamas must prioritize a genuine political settlement and international mediation to achieve lasting peace.
Source: https://forward.com/opinion/712993/israel-hamas-war-gaza-hostages-netanyahu