National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir stated on Thursday that destroying Hamas and encouraging Palestinian emigration represents "the only solution in Gaza that Israel is prepared to be a partner in," Comments made as reports emerged of a potential deal to disarm the organization.
Ben-Gvir said Israel should not enter into an agreement with the group "through a third party, through mediators or through any other party." He added: "With the devil, whose banner is our destruction, you do not commit to stopping the elimination of terrorists, and you do not sign agreements."
Following the October 7, 2023 massacre attributed to Hamas, Ben-Gvir said Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu should communicate to allies that Israel will accept "no other solution" Than the terrorists' destruction.
Hebrew media reported Thursday that mediators had reached a proposed agreement with Hamas for Gaza's disarmament under Phase 2 of U.S. President Donald Trump's peace plan. According to Channel 12 News, the proposal requires Hamas to surrender all heavy and light weapons, including arms held by its "policing" Forces, and control of underground tunnels. Weapons would be transferred over weeks to depots secured by a U.S.-backed International Stabilization Force.
The proposal also calls for Hamas to cease all terrorist activity and recruitment, with the Israel Defense Forces remaining on the Yellow Line in Gaza until disarmament is completed.
Phase 2 includes demilitarization of Hamas, establishment of a Palestinian technocratic administration backed by an international Board of Peace and stabilization force, expanded humanitarian aid, and Gaza reconstruction.
Trump's Board of Peace and the Israeli Prime Minister's Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment.