Netanyahu Says Hamas Will Be Disarmed, Whether by Force or Negotiation, Amid Gaza Ceasefire Talks

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday that he expects Israeli hostages held in Gaza could be released “in the coming days,” as Egypt prepares to host talks under a peace initiative led by US President Donald Trump.

Netanyahu emphasized that Israel would not fully withdraw from Gaza, stating that Israeli forces will maintain control over certain areas while Hamas is expected to be disarmed “either diplomatically or through military action.”

In a televised statement, he said, “Hamas will be disarmed and Gaza will be demilitarised – either the easy way or the hard way, but it will be achieved.” He also noted that Israel has accepted the initial withdrawal lines proposed in the plan, but securing hostages’ safety and ending the fighting remain top priorities.

Hamas has signaled willingness to accept some elements of the plan, including releasing hostages and allowing Gaza to be governed by technocrats, but it has not yet addressed disarmament, a key Israeli demand. US President Donald Trump urged Hamas to move quickly, warning that delays could jeopardize the deal.

Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan
The 20-point US plan seeks a swift resolution to the conflict. Under the proposal, Hamas would release all remaining Israeli hostages — nearly 20 believed to be alive — within three days. In return, Israel would pause its offensive, withdraw from parts of Gaza, release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and allow humanitarian aid and reconstruction.

Violence Continues Amid Talks
Despite negotiations, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza continued on Saturday, killing at least 36 people, including children. Medical officials in Gaza City reported casualties, while Israel stated it had shifted to a defensive-only posture in preparation for implementing the US-brokered plan.