Pressure Increases on Hamas as UN Endorses Trump Peace Strategy

The call to disarm and expel Hamas is intensifying following the U.N. Security Council’s endorsement of President Donald Trump’s peace plan. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu publicly urged regional governments to collaborate with Israel in removing Hamas from Gaza. His office stated that it is crucial to begin “ending Hamas’ rule” in the territory, reflecting both Israeli and international sentiments post-vote.

In a statement released on X, Netanyahu emphasized that Israel fully supports the Security Council’s decision. The statement also noted that Hamas has yet to show a genuine willingness to disarm, but growing pressure from Western nations and neighboring Arab states could influence their stance. Netanyahu’s office highlighted the expectation of receiving all deceased hostages without delay and expressed hope for a swift process of disarmament and demilitarization in Gaza.

The Prime Minister’s message extended an invitation to all regional neighbors to normalize relations with Israel. “Israel extends its hand in peace and prosperity to all of our neighbors and calls on them to normalize relations with Israel and join us in expelling Hamas and its supporters from the region,” the statement read.

Arab League’s Support and Ongoing Tensions

Earlier, in July, the Arab League, which comprises 22 member states, called for Hamas to disarm as part of a joint resolution presented to the U.N. This resolution included key Middle Eastern nations like Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, which have played important roles as mediators between Hamas and Western interests. Despite a tentative ceasefire, minor skirmishes have occurred, although the deal has so far prevented major escalations between Israel and Hamas.

Trump’s peace proposal envisions an “International Stabilization Force” (ISF) to assume governance from Hamas. This force is expected to be led by “Palestinian technocrats” and would incorporate personnel from several Arab nations. An overarching “Board of Peace” would include Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in leadership roles, signaling a commitment to a collaborative approach to governance in Gaza.

Commitment to a Demilitarized Gaza

The U.S. administration has reiterated its dedication to a demilitarized and self-governing Gaza, emphasizing broad regional participation. White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly stated, “As the United States’ Resolution adopted by the United Nations Security Council conveys, President Trump’s administration is committed to a demilitarized, deradicalized, prosperous, and self-governing Gaza supported by broad regional participation.”

The ongoing developments in the region highlight the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the challenges of achieving lasting peace. As international and regional actors mobilize, the situation remains fluid, with potential implications for stability in the broader Middle East.