Hamas signals readiness to store heavy weapons in Gaza ceasefire deal, awaiting Israeli approval
Hamas is reportedly prepared to place its heavy weapons under storage as part of a proposed second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, provided Israel agrees to fully withdraw its forces from the Gaza Strip and halt all military operations. According to Palestine Al-Youm, a television channel affiliated with Palestinian Islamic Jihad, an announcement on the proposed agreement is expected later today following discussions between Hamas and international mediators.
The reported framework ties Hamas' weapons storage to key Israeli concessions: complete military withdrawal from Gaza, an end to targeted killings, and a cessation of air and ground strikes across the territory. Hamas would store (not destroy) its heavy weapons, although it remains unclear which party would oversee or take custody of the arsenal. The report specifies that light weapons are not part of the current proposal, with no details provided on quantities or storage mechanisms.
Despite reported progress, any deal would still require Israel's approval before implementation and is expected to face significant resistance. Previous negotiations have shown Israel's reluctance to accept full withdrawal or end military operations without broader security guarantees. For Nigerians monitoring global conflicts that can influence oil prices and regional stability, does this storage-for-withdrawal framework represent meaningful progress toward lasting ceasefire given historical Israeli hesitations?