Hamas' agreement to disarm raises hope in Gaza

Key Points:

• Palestinians in Gaza view President Trump’s announcement of a Hamas disarmament agreement as a hopeful sign for ending Israeli attacks, but Israeli strikes have continued, and progress on the broader ceasefire has stalled since October.
• The U.S.-backed ceasefire plan from last year included provisions for Israeli troop withdrawal, an international stabilization force, and Hamas weapon decommissioning, but mutual ceasefire violations have prevented implementation.
• Many Gaza residents remain skeptical of both Israel and Hamas, doubting that either will adhere to the new road map, especially amid ongoing violence, displacement, and deteriorating living conditions.
• Israel has not publicly supported the road map and continues to control significant parts of Gaza, including a newly established “security zone,” with no indication of troop withdrawal along the Yellow Line.
• Despite destruction and displacement, many Palestinians in Gaza hold onto hope for returning and rebuilding their homes, seeing even limited returns as a sign of potential future recovery.