Israel has reiterated that the disarmament of Hamas is a non-negotiable condition for rebuilding the Gaza Strip, urging international mediators to ensure the Palestinian militant group gives up its weapons. The position was outlined by the Israeli Prime Minister’s Office, which reaffirmed the country’s support for US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan.
According to the Israeli statement, the government is working with Washington and the US-backed Board of Peace to advance the proposed framework. However, Israel maintains that Gaza’s reconstruction cannot proceed without Hamas being disarmed, removed from governance and prevented from rebuilding its military infrastructure.
Israel has accused Hamas of previously diverting construction materials intended for civilian projects towards military activities. The allegations include using cement supplied for housing to construct underground tunnels and repurposing water pipes for weapons production. Israel has also raised concerns about humanitarian assistance being exploited to strengthen the group’s capabilities.
Alongside its security demands, Israel highlighted humanitarian preparations for the winter season. Through the Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), it said it had facilitated the delivery of more than 91,000 tents and over 8,200 truckloads of winter supplies, including blankets, tarpaulins and clothing.
The programme also includes 12 vacuum trucks for sewage removal, repairs to water and sewage networks, and fuel supplies for pumping facilities. These measures come as heavy rainfall and flooding have worsened conditions for displaced Palestinian families living in temporary shelters.
The US-backed Board of Peace has called for improved humanitarian access and the entry of additional materials required for temporary accommodation, sanitation and drainage infrastructure.
Trump’s 20-point peace framework aims to establish a longer-term arrangement for Gaza through Hamas’s disarmament, demilitarisation and the transfer of administrative responsibilities to a Palestinian technocratic government.
However, disagreements over security arrangements, governance and reconstruction continue to complicate implementation. Israel’s latest position makes clear that it considers Hamas’s disarmament essential before major rebuilding efforts can move forward.