Rubio Discusses Hamas and Ceasefire Agreement
During an appearance on ABC’s “This Week,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the key aspects of Hamas’s agreement involve demobilizing terrorist factions.
On Friday, Hamas revealed it had tentatively consented to release all remaining hostages and relinquish control, aligning with a ceasefire proposal from former President Donald Trump. ABC’s Martha Raddatz highlighted that while Trump insists Hamas cannot threaten Israel again, the deal still lacks a clear path for the disarmament of the group.
Rubio acknowledged, “Look, whether it’s Hamas or any successor, if there’s a persistent threat from Gaza towards Israel, addressing that will be pivotal in the second phase.”
The interim agreement from Hamas surfaced shortly after Trump’s 6 PM deadline on Friday morning. Trump mentioned that remaining fighters could evade repercussions if they agreed to release all hostages, including deceased individuals.
Furthermore, Rubio pointed out that Arab nations have embraced the agreement. He speculated that, under Hamas’s management, the Palestinians shouldn’t pose any risks to Israel.
“This is common knowledge, including among the regional Arab states,” Rubio noted. “They fully recognize the importance of negotiating for what Israel desires and what we envision, focusing on a governance model led by Palestinian technocrats. Yet, Palestinian leaders face threats from local civic authorities, which complicates peace prospects.”
He added, “For a sustainable peace, demobilization must take place. Hamas’s historical actions reflect its existence as a threat to Israel, which has to be addressed in this next phase. There’s no denying that.” He emphasized that anyone favoring lasting peace should back the demobilization of armed groups operating within Gaza.
As the conflict nears its second anniversary, there are rising concerns among Palestinians regarding Hamas’s grip on the Gaza Strip. Reports indicate that residents are urging Hamas to accept negotiations with Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Since the announcement of the tentative deal, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff is leading efforts in Cairo to foster discussions between Israel and Hamas. Trump expressed gratitude to Israel for pausing military actions, allowing for hostages to be freed and the peace process to advance, while also encouraging Hamas to act promptly.
