Arab news at a glance

Hamas and several Palestinian factions have agreed to a comprehensive framework governing the future of armed groups in the Gaza Strip, according to sources close to the negotiations cited by Al-Qods on July 31. The announcement comes as part of a roadmap backed by the Peace Council and mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States.

The proposed plan sets out a phased process for the inventory, storage, and oversight of Palestinian armed groups’ weapons. In return, it calls for a full and guaranteed withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, paving the way for a new phase focused on humanitarian relief and large-scale reconstruction.

The issue of disarmament, a central point in negotiations for several months, is directly linked to the Israeli withdrawal and the establishment of a new governing framework in Gaza. Hamas maintains that any steps concerning its arsenal will depend on Israel fulfilling its commitments and on the provision of international guarantees.

According to the sources, a National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (CNAG) would gradually assume civilian and security responsibilities, supported by an International Stabilization Force. An international commission would also oversee the inventory and verification of weapons.

Hamas is reportedly prepared, at least initially, to include only heavy weapons in the process, while the future of military infrastructure and tunnels is expected to be addressed during upcoming technical negotiations. Other armed factions would also be required to comply with the agreement, with options ranging from civilian reintegration to leaving Gaza.

The first 14 days of implementation are expected to include an initial Israeli redeployment to a designated line and the launch of the transitional governing structures. However, the success of the agreement will ultimately depend on the mediators’ ability to ensure that both sides honor their commitments and prevent a renewed outbreak of hostilities.

Source: Al-Qods