Hamas Agrees on Draft Peace Plan Amid Ongoing Tensions in Gaza

A representative from Hamas has indicated to Al Jazeera that any progress derived from the recent draft peace plan is contingent upon Israel fulfilling its obligations. This plan outlines Hamas's commitment to disarmament, part of a wider agreement aimed at ending military hostilities. Ghazi Hamad, a Hamas official, mentioned that the draft was formulated under challenging circumstances, stating that the group intends to remain a pivotal part of Palestinian society rather than withdrawing from the political landscape.

According to Mr Hamad, the peace agreement is comprehensive, encompassing not only disarmament but also a cessation of military operations by Israel, the full withdrawal of troops from the Gaza Strip, and the introduction of a National Committee alongside international forces for oversight and reconstruction efforts.

On the subject of heavy weapons, Mr Hamad reiterated that Hamas is prepared to secure its arms under the supervision of the National Committee, provided that Israel commits to a number of initial stages, including a phased withdrawal from Gaza.

He remarked, "Our primary objective is to protect our people in the Gaza Strip from the ongoing hostile measures and criminal plans pursued by the Israeli occupation." This statement underscores the group’s aim to safeguard civilians while also adhering to the conditions of the peace plan.

The Israeli military reported the elimination of Mujahideen Brigades commander Ahmed Hussein Mohammed Kafina, alleging his involvement in the recent abduction incidents linked to attacks carried out on October 7, 2023.

Additionally, events in Israel have seen 14 soldiers from the Givati Brigade’s Tzabar Battalion receive sentences following a mass desertion at an army base. These soldiers abandoned their posts over disputes related to discipline within the unit, which has faced accusations of misconduct towards Palestinian detainees.

Tensions in the West Bank have escalated, with reports from the Wafa news agency indicating that Israeli settlers have set fire to Palestinian agricultural lands near Nablus. Local sources stated that the fires, which resulted in the destruction of olive trees, were met with obstruction from settlers when Palestinian Civil Defence crews sought to extinguish the flames.

The Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR) has highlighted ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza, describing them as "widespread and systematic" aggression targeting civilians, homes, and shelters. The PCHR urged the international community to respond urgently to prevent what it characterises as genocidal activities against the Palestinian population.

Louise Haigh, a UK government minister, remarked on the potential for progress in disarmament discussions, calling any advancements highly welcome. She noted, "The suffering in Gaza and the wider region has been too extreme for far too long. The human cost of the war has been absolutely obscene and intolerable." Haigh emphasised the importance of monitoring developments, including Israeli responses to these peace initiatives and addressing violence from settlers in the West Bank.