Arab Nations Urge Hamas to Disarm and End Gaza Rule

Arab Nations Call for Hamas to Disarm and Step Down in Gaza

A significant shift has occurred in the stance of several Arab nations regarding the Palestinian militant group Hamas. For the first time, countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt have publicly called on Hamas to disarm and relinquish control over the Gaza Strip. This development marks a pivotal moment in regional politics, as these nations joined 14 others, including Britain and France, in signing a joint statement that condemns the October 7 attacks and demands Hamas's disbandment.

The declaration, issued following a conference at the United Nations, outlines a clear call for an end to the conflict in Gaza. It emphasizes that Hamas must cease its rule in the region and surrender its weapons to the Palestinian Authority. The statement highlights the importance of international engagement and support in achieving a sovereign and independent Palestinian state.

Jean-Noel Barrot, France’s foreign minister, described the declaration as “both historic and unprecedented.” He noted that this is the first time Arab countries and Middle Eastern nations have condemned Hamas, denounced the attacks on October 7, and called for the group's exclusion from future governance in Palestine. Barrot also mentioned the intention of these countries to normalize relations with Israel in the future.

David Lammy, the UK’s Foreign Secretary, supported the statement during his address at the UN Assembly. He emphasized that Hamas should not be rewarded for the “monstrous attack” on October 7. Lammy called for the immediate release of hostages, an immediate ceasefire, and the group’s exclusion from governing Gaza. He also urged Hamas to commit to disarmament.

This position came after Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer announced that Britain would recognize Palestine as a state unless Israel met certain conditions, including ending the “appalling” situation in Gaza. However, this announcement drew criticism from the United States, Israel, and Jewish groups.

The statement signed by Arab nations also calls for the release of all remaining Israeli hostages. It outlines a comprehensive vision for peace, including ending the occupation, rejecting violence and terror, and realizing an independent, sovereign, and democratic Palestinian state. The text also emphasizes the need for solid security guarantees for both Israel and Palestine to achieve normal relations and coexistence among the region's peoples and states.

The declaration was also endorsed by Canada and other Western nations. It supports a two-state solution and advocates for the deployment of foreign forces to Gaza once the war concludes. The statement proposes the establishment of a temporary international stabilisation mission, invited by the Palestinian Authority and under the UN’s aegis. This mission would be mandated by the UN Security Council and supported by regional and international partners.

Additionally, the statement urges Israeli leaders, including Benjamin Netanyahu, to issue a clear public commitment to the two-state solution, including a sovereign and viable Palestinian state. Despite the widespread support, Israel and the United States boycotted the conference and did not sign the declaration.

Earlier this month, sources within Hamas indicated to Saudi media that the group might consider laying down its arms as part of a potential ceasefire deal with Israel. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron recently announced that France would recognize Palestinian statehood.

For decades, most UN members have supported a two-state solution, envisioning a peaceful coexistence between Israel and a Palestinian state. However, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres recently stated that the two-state solution is “farther than ever before.”

This collective effort by Arab nations represents a significant shift in regional dynamics and could influence future diplomatic efforts in the Middle East.