Hamas refuses to relinquish weaponry unless a Palestinian nation is established - Hamas denies disarming without establishment of a Palestinian nation-state
In the ongoing negotiations between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, a fundamental disagreement persists. The Islamist group Hamas, based in the Gaza Strip, has stated its refusal to disarm, a demand made by Israel as part of any agreement[1].
Hamas's stance on disarmament is contingent upon the establishment of a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, which includes the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and East Jerusalem. The city of Jerusalem is identified as the capital of the proposed independent Palestinian state by Hamas[2].
The group's refusal to disarm is not a new position. In their 2017 charter, Hamas accepts a Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, but it does not claim all of historic Palestine, including present-day Israel[3]. The armed resistance led by Hamas can only cease once the rights of Palestinians are fully realized[4].
The establishment of an independent and fully sovereign Palestinian state is a key demand of Hamas. Israel's government, however, opposes a two-state solution, believing the West Bank and East Jerusalem belong to Israel for historical and religious reasons[5].
Meanwhile, in a separate development, Steve Witkoff, the US special envoy, stated that Hamas is ready for demilitarization[6]. However, there is no available information linking him to the negotiations or positions concerning Hamas's disarmament or the establishment of a Palestinian state. A recent meeting between Witkoff and the Forum of Hostage Families in Tel Aviv saw him express optimism, stating, "We are on the brink of ending this war" and "We have a plan to end the war and bring everyone home"[7].
As the negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether the impasse over Hamas's disarmament and the establishment of a Palestinian state can be resolved. The statement from Hamas regarding these issues was made public, offering a clear position for all parties involved.
The Commission, in light of the ongoing political negotiations and general news, has been asked to submit a proposal for a directive on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation, especially in war-and-conflicts zones, considering the risks faced by workers in the reconstruction process after conflicts, including in areas affected by radiation from past wars.
The political discourse on the establishment of a Palestinian state and Hamas's disarmament continues to be a significant point of discussion, with Hamas's stance clearly stated and the US special envoy expressing optimism about ending the ongoing war.
