Hamas’ Khaled Mashaal Rejects Disarmament, Opposes Foreign Rule, Demands Israeli Withdrawal From Gaza

Senior Hamas official Khaled Mashaal has firmly dismissed proposals for the disarmament of the Palestinian group or the imposition of any foreign authority over Gaza, reaffirming Hamas’ demand for a complete Israeli withdrawal.

In remarks attributed to Mashaal, the veteran Hamas leader said Gaza’s future must be determined by Palestinians alone, rejecting international discussions that envision foreign security forces or transitional administrations governing the territory after the war.

“We will not accept disarmament, nor will we accept foreign rule,” Mashaal said, according to statements circulated by Hamas-aligned media. He added that any political arrangement must begin with Israel’s full withdrawal from Gaza.

Mashaal’s comments come amid ongoing international efforts to shape post-war governance in Gaza, with Western and regional powers debating scenarios that include Palestinian Authority involvement or multinational oversight.

Israel has repeatedly stated it will not allow Hamas to retain control of Gaza, while also opposing a return of the Palestinian Authority under its current structure. Hamas, meanwhile, insists that resistance groups must remain armed as long as Israeli occupation persists.