Hamas says ready to go ahead with Gaza plan

What Happened

On 9 August 2026, Hamas stated it remained ready to proceed with a US-backed Gaza peace plan, according to an AFP report. A Hamas official said the group had informed US President Donald Trump's Board of Peace that it stood by the latest stage, which includes disarmament and handing over weapons to a nascent Palestinian governing committee. Trump had previously hailed the disarmament agreement as a breakthrough, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Tuesday (5 August 2026) that Israel had not agreed to the 'draft' presented by the Board of Peace.

Key Actors

Why It Matters

The conflicting signals over the US-backed plan highlight persistent divisions over disarmament and governance in post-war Gaza. A breakthrough would mark a significant shift in Hamas's stance and potentially open a path to ending hostilities, but Netanyahu's denial underscores Israel's reluctance to accept terms it views as premature or unfavorable, threatening to prolong the war.

Watch For

Monitor whether Israel issues a formal rejection or counters with revised terms. Watch for reactions from Egypt and Qatar as mediators, and any scheduled meetings of the Board of Peace. Also note if other Palestinian factions or the Palestinian Authority comment on the proposed governing committee.