Gaza City – On October 11, 2025, senior Hamas official Basem Naeem stated, “We will not disarm until an independent and sovereign state capable of defending itself is established,” signaling the group’s intention to retain weapons as part of any future Palestinian army. Naeem’s remarks, reported by Al Jazeera, translate to Hamas “transferring” its arsenal to a state entity, a move critics label as legitimizing terrorism under the guise of sovereignty. This stance has drawn sharp condemnation from Israel, which insists that no such terror state will be allowed to form.

Amid a fragile ceasefire brokered by President Donald Trump’s plan, Hamas has reasserted control in parts of Gaza, coordinating with Egypt and the UN to repair water and electricity systems while UNRWA prepares to return. However, Israel now holds over half the Strip, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowing, “Israel will not move an inch until Hamas disarms and Gaza is fully demilitarized.” The hostages, numbering 48, may soon be released as part of the first phase, but Naeem’s refusal underscores the impasse, as Hamas views disarmament as surrender rather than a step toward peace.