Amman, July 14 — Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas has called on Hamas to surrender its control of Gaza and disarm, asserting that the militant group cannot govern the war-torn enclave once hostilities end. His remarks came during a high-level meeting with former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair in the Jordanian capital, amid renewed diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire.
Abbas emphasized that Gaza must be administered by a single legitimate authority under the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), with international backing. “There must be one government, one law, and one set of arms in Gaza,” he said, adding that Hamas must align with the PLO’s political framework and international legitimacy.
The Palestinian leader also demanded the release of all hostages and prisoners, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the immediate entry of humanitarian aid. Over 58,000 Palestinians have been killed since the war began, according to Gaza health officials.
Trump Signals Ceasefire Breakthrough
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could be reached “within a week.” Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump said indirect talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt were progressing, and that both sides were “close to a breakthrough.”
“Hopefully we’re going to get that straightened out over the next week,” Trump said, adding that his administration was working closely with regional partners to finalize a deal.
The proposed framework includes a 60-day truce, phased release of hostages, partial Israeli troop withdrawals, and renewed negotiations aimed at ending the 21-month war. However, talks remain stalled over Israel’s refusal to commit to a full withdrawal and Hamas’s insistence on retaining some military capabilities.
Deepening Divisions
The longstanding rift between Abbas’s Fatah party and Hamas continues to complicate efforts for Palestinian unity. Hamas seized control of Gaza in 2007 following its victory in the 2006 legislative elections, triggering a bitter political split. Despite sporadic reconciliation attempts, tensions remain high.
Abbas’s latest demand echoes similar calls made earlier this year, when he referred to Hamas as “sons of dogs” during a Palestinian Central Council session. Hamas has rejected the notion of disarmament and maintains that its resistance is legitimate.
As diplomatic efforts intensify, observers say the coming days will be critical in determining whether a ceasefire can be achieved — and whether Gaza’s future governance can be resolved without further bloodshed.
