US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called for the disarmament of Hamas, while expressing cautious optimism about progress on the next stage of the Gaza ceasefire. The discussions come as regional mediators, including officials from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, traveled to Miami to meet US envoys, including Steve Witkoff, a close associate of former President Donald Trump.
Speaking at a Washington press conference, Rubio acknowledged the immense challenges in maintaining peace in Gaza. He described the October ceasefire, which coincided with the release of hostages, as a “miracle” while stressing that ongoing vigilance and cooperation would be required to uphold it.
The next phase of the ceasefire envisions Israel withdrawing from key positions in Gaza, the establishment of an interim authority in place of Hamas, and deployment of an international stabilization force. Rubio warned, however, that none of this would succeed without disarming Hamas.
“If Hamas is ever in a position in the future to threaten or attack Israel, you’re not going to have peace. That’s why disarmament is so critical,” Rubio said.
Hamas leaders, meanwhile, maintain that they have a “legitimate right” to bear arms. Khalil al-Hayya, the Gaza chief, and political bureau member Bassem Naim emphasized that the talks must address what they view as ongoing violations of the truce by Israel, calling for full adherence to the Sharm El-Sheikh agreement and increased humanitarian access for the people of Gaza.
On the international front, Rubio expressed hope that multiple nations would contribute troops to the stabilization force. Pakistan, despite not recognizing Israel, has offered to consider participation, while Indonesia has pledged up to 20,000 peacekeepers. Turkey’s involvement, however, faces Israeli opposition, despite Ankara’s recognition of Israel.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. Recent shelling by Israeli forces killed five people in a shelter, bringing the total Palestinian deaths since the ceasefire began on October 10 to 400. Israel reports that Hamas has violated the truce, resulting in the deaths of three Israeli soldiers. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called for stronger international pressure to enforce compliance from both sides.
As the ceasefire negotiations advance, the international community faces the dual task of enforcing peace while addressing urgent humanitarian needs. The success of these talks could determine the future of Gaza and whether lasting stability can be achieved in the region.
