Israel raises concerns over Hamas disarmament deal

Israel has expressed serious security concerns to the United States — White House regarding the proposed Hamas disarmament deal, according to Doron Spielman, spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. Spielman stated that Israel's intelligence assessment indicates Hamas remains committed to rebuilding its military rather than genuinely demilitarizing, and that the Israel Defense Forces would not withdraw from Gaza before Hamas disarms. The remarks came as Israeli strikes in Gaza killed at least 17 people, including children, according to local hospitals. The disarmament deal, announced by Donald Trump, is part of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire signed nine months ago. It includes the transfer of Hamas-held weapons to the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, the dismantling of tunnels and military production sites, and a phased Israeli withdrawal. Israel has also communicated its concerns to Tony Blair of the Board of Peace, including demands for freedom to conduct military operations in Gaza, exclusion of Qatar and Turkey from verification, and destruction of confiscated weapons. The deal faces hurdles, and Israel appears unlikely to make significant concessions ahead of its October elections.