Hamas leader Khaled Meshaal has outlined the Palestinian group’s own disarmament vision as part of negotiations with the United States, a key issue in the second phase of the two-month ceasefire with Israel. Speaking to Al Jazeera Arabic, Meshaal emphasized that Hamas seeks guarantees to prevent the return of conflict, proposing a long-term truce of seven to ten years while maintaining oversight of its weapons.

Meshaal stated that the challenge in phase two is balancing the demands of Israel and other parties seeking full surrender of Hamas’ arsenal. “We want a vision in which our weapons are hidden, kept, not used, and not paraded,” he said. The plan involves coordination with US officials and international mediators to ensure the ceasefire’s sustainability.

Ceasefire Challenges and Humanitarian Concerns

The fragile ceasefire, brokered in early October by the Trump administration, has already seen over 700 violations by Israel, according to Gaza authorities. These violations include restrictions on humanitarian aid, leaving hundreds of thousands of Palestinians vulnerable, especially during Storm Byron, which has devastated makeshift shelters across the enclave.

The contentious second phase of the ceasefire will tackle three major issues: Israeli withdrawal, Palestinian disarmament, and the formal conclusion of the war. Meshaal cautioned that forcibly removing Hamas’ weapons would strike at the organization’s core identity, calling for a phased, negotiated approach.

International Oversight and Stabilisation

Hamas has expressed openness to the presence of international peacekeepers, drawing parallels to UN forces in Lebanon, to prevent escalation while maintaining its internal control. While the United States continues to press for disarmament, countries like Turkiye have offered to participate in an International Stabilisation Force (ISF) to facilitate Israel’s withdrawal and enforce security, though Israel has rejected Turkish involvement.

Meshaal emphasized a Palestinian-led governance model for Gaza, advocating technocratic oversight while insisting that Palestinians should decide their leaders without external “guardianship” imposed by international bodies. He criticized the US-proposed “board of peace” as risky and potentially undermining Palestinian sovereignty.

Historical Context and Global Attention

Founded in the late 1980s during the first Intifada, Hamas’ armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, has been central to its identity, engaging Israeli forces since the early 1990s. Hamas’ political wing has governed Gaza since 2007 following its 2006 election victory.

Meshaal also highlighted the international ramifications of Israel’s actions during the war, saying the country has become an “outcast state” due to its conduct and violation of human rights. He referenced the ICC arrest warrants issued in November 2024 against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and two members of his security cabinet, framing the conflict as a global human rights issue.

Path Forward

Mediators emphasize that coordinated, pragmatic negotiations are essential to move into the second phase. US officials confirmed that intense talks are ongoing, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stressed the importance of achieving the objectives of the first phase before advancing.

Meshaal expressed cautious optimism that with international mediation and pragmatic US engagement, Hamas’ disarmament vision could form the basis of a sustainable peace, preventing renewed conflict and fostering long-term stability in Gaza.