Qatar, Saudi, Egypt Demand Hamas Disarm and Surrender Gaza Rule
Global Push to Dismantle Hamas Control Over Gaza
In a major shift, Arab states—including Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Egypt—joined forces to call for the disarmament of Hamas and the end of its rule in the Gaza Strip. They aim to bring the region back under the authority of the Palestinian Palestinian Authority (PA) and restore peace.
UN Conference Adoption of Seven‑Page Text
- Seventeen countries, the European Union and the Arab League weighed in on a UN‑approved proposal that revives the two‑state solution for Israel and the Palestinians.
- The declaration demands that Hamas withdraw from Gaza, hand over its weapons, and allow the PA to govern the coastal territory.
- It strongly condemns the October 7, 2023 attacks that sparked the current war.
Historic Stance of Arab Nations
French officials, alongside Saudi Arabia, described the declaration as “historic and unprecedented.” French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noel Barrot highlighted that for the first time, Middle Eastern nations publicly denounced Hamas, called for its disarmament, and signaled intentions to normalize relations with Israel in the future.
Invitation for International Stabilization Mission
The document, signed by France, Britain, Canada and other western nations, also opened the door for the possible deployment of foreign forces to stabilize Gaza following the cessation of hostilities. The United Nations and the UN Security Council are tasked to mandate this temporary mission, with supporting regional and international partners.
Britain’s Conditional Recognition of Palestinian State
- British Foreign Secretary David Lammy indicated that London may recognize a Palestinian state in September if Israel meets certain conditions.
- Conditions include implementing a ceasefire in Gaza, allowing sufficient aid, and addressing illegal settlement expansion in the West Bank.
- Lammy warned that if Israel fails to comply, Britain would pause or cancel its recognition plan.
UN Secretary‑General Speaks on Two‑State Future
UN Secretary‑General Antonio Guterres underscored at the meeting that the two‑state solution is now “farther than ever before.” He emphasized that with more than 21 months of war, expanding Israeli settlements, and potential annexation of occupied territories, the geographical feasibility of a Palestinian state is in danger.
