In a significant development, Arab nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, have collectively called for Hamas to disarm and relinquish control of Gaza. This unified stance aims to end the ongoing conflict in the region and pave the way for a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians.
The declaration, endorsed by seventeen countries, the European Union, and the Arab League, was announced at a United Nations conference focused on reviving the two-state solution. The document emphasizes the need for Hamas to cease its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international support, aligning with the objective of establishing a sovereign and independent Palestinian state.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot highlighted the historic nature of this declaration, noting that it marks the first time Arab countries and those in the Middle East have condemned Hamas, called for its disarmament, and expressed an intention to normalize relations with Israel in the future.
The declaration also condemns the attacks committed by Hamas against civilians on October 7, 2023, and proposes the deployment of a temporary international stabilization mission under the auspices of the United Nations to support the transition in Gaza.
This collective call for Hamas to disarm and transfer control of Gaza signifies a pivotal moment in the pursuit of peace and stability in the region, reflecting a growing consensus among Arab nations for a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.