Hamas to accept exile of leaders, halting arms smuggling in Gaza ceasefire proposal

While full compliance appears unlikely, the reported flexibility on two points – disarmament and exile – signals a potential shift in stance.

By Yair Kleinbaum, JFeed

As indirect negotiations intensify, Hamas has reportedly shown willingness to accept two of Israel’s three main demands in exchange for a phased ceasefire and hostage release.

According to Saudi outlet Asharq, Hamas may offer guarantees to halt arms smuggling, close weapon production sites, stop tunneling operations, and store its weapons, steps seen as de-facto demilitarization.

The group is also reportedly open to the symbolic and temporary exile of a small number of senior figures. This would mark a significant concession, as Israel has demanded the removal of Hamas leadership from Gaza as a condition for ending the war.

Although Hamas has yet to formally respond to the latest ceasefire proposal, President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that a reply could come “within 24 hours.”

Trump added that he wants safety for the people of Gaza and has been pressing both Israel and Hamas to reach a deal, applying pressure on Qatar and other mediators.

The three Israeli conditions include: the end of Hamas rule in Gaza, the group’s disarmament, and the exile of key leaders.

While full compliance appears unlikely, the reported flexibility on two points – disarmament and exile – signals a potential shift in stance.

Sources quoted by Asharq also said that Hamas may agree to stop its terrorists from wearing uniforms publicly, further suggesting a willingness to scale back its overt military presence.

However, the identity of the leaders to be exiled and the duration of their absence remain unclear.

Meanwhile, Hamas’s internal enforcement unit, known as the “Arrow Unit” (Sahem), is preparing for a post-ceasefire crackdown on collaborators and criminal elements.

The unit has released statements warning that it will begin punishing “traitors” immediately after a truce is declared, including drug dealers and informants, many of whom are allegedly listed by name.

On the security front, Israeli intelligence believes Hamas military commander Az al-Din Haddad, considered close to Yahya Sinwar, is now leading Hamas operations in Gaza.

Regional mediators Egypt and Qatar reportedly believe Hamas remains the only viable policing force in Gaza during a potential transitional phase, as any future government will require on-the-ground enforcement.

According to the proposal being discussed, Hamas would release roughly half of the living hostages and half of the remains of deceased captives in five stages over 60 days.

If serious talks on ending the war are underway during the ceasefire, the U.S. may offer guarantees to prevent the resumption of hostilities.

Israeli officials close to Prime Minister Netanyahu say he is “very eager” for a deal, viewing the current diplomatic climate as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity.”