Hamas shows the way

Hamas has taken a major step toward institutionalising the peace process by dissolving its governing body in Gaza. The politico-military organisation's decision to dismantle the administration that has ruled the besieged enclave since 2007 reinforces the core elements of the Board of Peace plan for Palestinian self-determination and autonomous rule. Consequently, the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza must now step in to pave the way for civilian rule. However, a significant hurdle remains: Hamas has yet to relinquish its weapons, which could disrupt the entire process. The group maintains valid reservations, stating it requires the formal establishment of a Palestinian administration before it will consider surrendering its arsenal.

Hamas has demonstrated commitment by engaging patiently in complex negotiations alongside Egypt, positioning itself as a credible participant in confidence-building measures. The first phase of negotiations, following the US-brokered ceasefire, resulted in Hamas releasing Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinians detained by Israel. However, the second phase, outlined in the 20-point BOP plan, stands stalled. This phase was intended to oversee a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza alongside Hamas's disarmament. This procedural deadlock demonstrates that both parties have failed to fully honour their commitments. Furthermore, Israel's continued military actions in Gaza and the West Bank signal a lack of goodwill, providing Hamas with justification to maintain its rigid stance.

President Trump's multi-billion dollar Gaza demilitarisation and rebuilding project can only succeed if Israel is held accountable. Since Washington lacks the political muscle to restrain its allied ally, Israel, little progress can be expected - even if Hamas surrenders its weapons in good faith. This requires regional stakeholders to step in and secure politico-legal guarantees to ensure the success of the BOP plan. From the Oslo Accords to the Abraham Accords, the Muslim world has repeatedly demonstrated goodwill, yet these efforts have consistently lacked genuine Israeli cooperation.