Hamas Claims Readiness for Gaza Roadmap While Retaining Weapons Control
Hamas claims readiness to implement the Gaza peace roadmap, yet continues to withhold its weapons and maintain control over the Strip, blaming Israel for stalling the ceasefire.
Hamas spokesman in Gaza, Hazem Qassem, stated on Thursday that the terror group is "fully prepared" to implement the roadmap agreed upon with the Peace Council regarding the Gaza Strip peace plan, claiming the group has "taken all necessary steps."
The remarks were made while Hamas has yet to surrender its remaining light and heavy weapons, thereby maintaining de facto control over the Strip even if a technocratic committee enters the enclave.
Qassem accused the Israeli government of fully disrupting the ceasefire and roadmap due to its refusal to commit to the agreement, its escalation of aggression, and the inability of the UN Security Council and envoy Mladenov to compel Israel to implement the accord.
Furthermore, the Hamas spokesman stated that all parties, particularly the US administration and the Peace Council, must act to facilitate the entry of the technocratic committee into the Gaza Strip to fulfill its duties toward residents and begin deploying international forces under the ceasefire agreement.
