US-Hamas channel has value, but only if terrorists disappear from Gaza’s future - editorial

A US delegation led by Jared Kushner met Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya in Egypt to advance a Gaza plan, focusing on disarmament, Israeli withdrawal, and governance. Kushner demanded concrete steps, while Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to the framework. Netanyahu insists on full disarmament. The editorial argues the channel has value only if it removes Hamas from Gaza's future.

A high-level American delegation met Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya in Egypt on Sunday, as the Trump administration sought to advance its Gaza plan. The meeting, led by Jared Kushner, focused on narrowing gaps over Hamas's disarmament, Israel's withdrawal, and the territory's future governance. Kushner, joined by former British PM Tony Blair and Board of Peace Director-General Nickolay Mladenov, told Hamas that statements about demilitarization were no longer sufficient and that Washington expected concrete, verifiable steps. Hamas left the meeting reaffirming its commitment to the American framework while demanding Israel fulfill its side of the agreement. Eight Arab and Muslim countries later criticized Israel over its rejection of the latest road map. Prime Minister Netanyahu maintains that Hamas must be fully disarmed and that Israel cannot withdraw while the terrorist organization retains the ability to rebuild its military power. The meeting marks a normalization of direct US-Hamas contacts, which began with a controversial March 2025 meeting and produced a ceasefire and hostage release in October. The editorial argues the channel has value only if it leads to Hamas's removal from Gaza's military and political future.