IDF to Expand Gaza Ground Operations on Sunday

Hamas Official Outlines Stance on Hostage Remains and Disarmament

A senior Hamas official has detailed the group’s position on recovering hostage remains and the ongoing debate over disarmament. Khalil al-Hayya, deputy chief of Hamas’s political bureau, made the statements during a recent interview with Al Jazeera.

Al-Hayya announced that Hamas is preparing to expand its search operations across Gaza. The group aims to locate the bodies of those killed during the recent conflict. He confirmed that teams will enter new areas starting Sunday to assist in recovery efforts. This initiative occurs amid ongoing diplomatic negotiations.

Engagement with US Officials

The Hamas official also addressed recent diplomatic engagements. He revealed discussions with US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Al-Hayya stated he told the American envoys that Hamas advocates for regional stability. These talks are part of broader mediation efforts concerning Gaza’s future.

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On the critical issue of disarmament, al-Hayya presented a clear condition. He insisted that Hamas’s weapons are directly linked to the Israeli occupation. The official stated that the group would only relinquish its arms if the occupation ends. In such a scenario, he claimed these weapons would then belong to the Palestinian state.

Future of Weapons Under Discussion

Al-Hayya confirmed that the disarmament issue remains unresolved. He noted that discussions are ongoing among various Palestinian factions and international mediators. The official described the current agreement as being in its early stages. These comments highlight Hamas’s effort to maintain political leverage.

The statements from the senior Hamas official reflect the group’s positioning during sensitive postwar talks. The future governance and security arrangements for Gaza continue to be a central point of negotiation. The issue of disarmament is a pivotal element in these complex discussions.