Senior US official: No rebuilding Gaza without disarming Hamas

The US position has remained unchanged since the beginning of the war, describing the complete dismantlement of Hamas as a prerequisite for any reconstruction effort.

By Vered Weiss, World Israel News

A senior US official said Gaza will not be rebuilt unless Hamas is completely dismantled, rejecting proposals that would transfer civilian authority while leaving the terrorist group’s military infrastructure intact.

Speaking to Channel 14 commentator Yaakov Bardugo, the official said the US administration views recent proposals concerning Gaza’s future governance as an attempt by Hamas to relinquish governing responsibilities without surrendering its weapons or military capabilities.

According to the official, plans for a technocratic government to assume control of Gaza would be considered only after Hamas has been fully stripped of its military capacity.

The official said reconstruction in areas currently controlled by Hamas would remain off the table until that condition is met.

Addressing the administration’s position, the official said there is no flexibility regarding Hamas’ disarmament.

“We insist on 100% dismantlement,” the official said.

He added that proposals calling for the partial reconstruction of Gaza before Hamas’ arsenal is eliminated would not be accepted.

The official said the administration continues to support the complete removal of Hamas’ weapons and the dismantling of the group’s military infrastructure throughout the Gaza Strip.

According to the official, attempts to advance alternative proposals through public messaging or media campaigns are intended to create confusion about the administration’s position.

He said the US stance has remained unchanged since the beginning of the war, describing the complete dismantlement of Hamas as a prerequisite for any reconstruction effort.

On Monday, Hamas signaled it would give up governing Gaza and transfer authority to the National Committee for Gaza Administration.

The move would involve the resignation of the acting head of the Government Follow-up Committee and the dissolution of the Government Emergency Committee as part of the transition.