Peace Council Details Gaza Demilitarization Plan Amid Policy Tensions
The Peace Council presented its post-war Gaza demilitarization and governance plan in New York, navigating disagreements between Israeli security demands and phased international implementation.
The Peace Council presented its preparations for the transfer of power and demilitarization in the Gaza Strip during the UN General Assembly in New York on Wednesday. Discussions highlighted ongoing disagreements regarding the implementation sequence. Israel demands the complete demilitarization of Hamas before withdrawing its forces and initiating reconstruction, whereas the Peace Council advocates for a phased approach.
"Our talks with Israel right now are not easy because of the elections there," said Nikolay Mladenov, the Peace Council's envoy for Gaza. He noted that the political climate leading up to the vote is emotionally charged and sensitive. Nevertheless, Mladenov emphasized that relations with Israel remain constructive, anchored by a shared vision of a demilitarized, civilly governed Gaza that enables full reconstruction and an eventual Israeli withdrawal.
Security Arrangements and Weapon Disposal
Addressing the fate of Hamas's arsenal, General Jasper Jeffers, commander of the international stabilization force, stated that technical plans are still being finalized. "Will it be destroyed? Will it be neutralized? What are the definitions for this?" Jeffers asked, explaining that the operation will involve dismantling tunnels and military infrastructure under continuous verification mechanisms.
Mladenov recalled that initial engagements with Hamas were fraught with resistance. It took approximately eight months of diplomacy to establish a roadmap addressing weapon categories and the transfer of authority, which serves as a temporary bridge to a reformed Palestinian administration.
Reconstruction and International Coalition
Dr. Ali Shaath, head of the Palestinian committee for Gaza administration, confirmed that reconstruction plans cover the entire 365 square kilometers of the enclave. Work is slated to progress from Rafah through Khan Yunis and Gaza City, conditional on disarmament and Israeli withdrawal.
"We are not bound to a calendar or dates. We are bound to verification," Mladenov declared, stressing that international monitors remain focused on tangible compliance.
US envoy Steve Witkoff noted that over two dozen nations have joined the effort, while Jared Kushner concluded the briefing by describing security coordination with the IDF as robust. Kushner affirmed that Hamas has agreed in principle to relinquish its weapons, as international stakeholders prepare for the upcoming operational phase.
