The Dutch Foreign Minister, Tom Berendsen, has expressed his support for a plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at disarming Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza. Berendsen described the initiative as a “hopeful” step toward achieving stability in the region.
The U.S.-backed proposal outlines a phased approach that would require Hamas to catalog and store heavy weaponry, military installations, weapons stockpiles, and tunnels. This process would be coupled with a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza during the disarmament phase. Berendsen noted that the plan could play a crucial role in enhancing Israel’s security, rebuilding Gaza, and fostering enduring peace between Israelis and Palestinians.
Hamas has confirmed the existence of such a plan that involves both disarmament and an Israeli withdrawal from the area. However, another armed faction in Gaza has expressed its refusal to lay down arms under any proposed agreement.
As of now, Israel has not made any public statements regarding the initiative. The proposal’s reception among various stakeholders in the region remains mixed, highlighting the complexities involved in addressing the long-standing conflict.