Hamas official says group ready to discuss disarmament as Trump's Gaza ceasefire plan heads for phase 2

Hamas is ready to enter talks about "freezing or storing" its weapons, an official from the militant group said on Dec. 7, according to AP News.

This comes as the Gaza conflict appears set to enter phase two of ceasefire plans in due time, in line with a peace plan unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump on Sep. 29.

Laying down arms

Hamas official told AP News in Doha, Qatar that Hamas is "open to have a comprehensive approach" to avoid backtracking on the progress made from phase one of the peace plan.

However, he reiterated that Hamas retains its right to resist any Israeli attack, but said that the group is ready and "very open minded" about discussions on what to do with its weapons.

He further suggested a long-term truce of five to 10 years for discussions on the establishment of a Palestinian state to take place, affirming Hamas' willingness to lay down their arms completely during this time.

It remains unclear if the offer meets Israel's demands for full disarmament.

Phase 2

The first phase of the U.S.-brokered peace plan came into motion on Oct. 13, when both Israel and Hamas released hostages and temporarily laid down arms.

At present, the remains of one Israeli hostage is still in Hamas' custody.

Israel's prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a press conference with German chancellor Friedrich Merz on Dec. 7 that he expects the ceasefire plan to move on to the second phase once the remaining hostage is returned.

"We finished the first part, as you know, phase one. We’re almost there," he said, according to the Times of Israel.

Further discussions will be held with Trump when both leaders meet later this month, Netanyahu said, emphasising that the end of Hamas rule in Gaza is key.

According to him, the second phase of the peace plan is expected to be even more challenging than the first.

The phase will include the disarmament of Hamas, deployment of an international security force in Gaza and an eventual withdrawal of Israeli troops.

The third phase, meanwhile, will be to "de-radicalise Gaza", according to Netanyahu.

Top image via AFP