Report: Progress in Cairo Talks on Gaza, Hamas Willing to Transfer Its Weapons to Another Body

Reports indicate progress in Cairo talks between Hamas and Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, with Hamas agreeing to transfer its weapons to 'Palestinian forces'. Palestinian sources estimate a deal could be signed in the coming days. Israeli media also reported advanced contacts for a declaration of disarmament and relinquishing control of the Strip.

Reports indicate significant progress in talks held in Cairo between Hamas and Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, mediated by the senior representative of the Peace Council for Gaza, Nikolai Mladenov. According to the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat, Hamas has agreed to hand over its weapons to 'Palestinian forces', although the exact nature of these forces was not specified. Palestinian sources assess that the atmosphere in the talks is positive and that a deal could be signed in the coming days. Israeli media also reported advanced contacts for a declaration by Hamas of disarmament and relinquishing control of the Strip in favor of an international stabilization force, due to pressure from the mediators and the White House. Israel's security cabinet this week approved the entry of the Peace Council into the Gaza Strip as part of a pilot to rehabilitate basic services in Rafah.