Arab countries—including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt— have, for the first time, publicly called on Hamas to relinquish control of Gaza and disarm, as part of renewed efforts to end the Gaza war and revive the stalled two‑state solution.
The seven-page document urges Hamas to transfer governing authority and weapons to the Palestinian Authority under international oversight, paving the way for a sovereign, independent Palestinian state.
The declaration read, “In the context of ending the war in Gaza, Hamas must end its rule in Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, with international engagement and support, in line with the objective of a sovereign and independent Palestinian State,”
It formally denounces the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 raid on Israel, which triggered the current conflict.
U.S. and Israeli leaders notably boycotted the conference; both were absent from the proceedings.
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French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called the move “historic and unprecedented”, marking the first open condemnation of Hamas by leading Arab nations and laying groundwork for future normalization with Israel.
The push reflects mounting regional frustration with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, now in its 22nd month of conflict, as well as diminishing tolerance for Hamas s grip on Gaza.
The declaration advocates forming a transitional administrative body under PA leadership and proposes a UN-backed stabilization mission, with a Security Council mandate, to secure post-war governance.
Backing is also growing for diplomatic moves toward recognizing Palestine, with Britain and France among first to signal such intent if ceasefire and disarmament conditions are met.
In newyork on July 28–29, 2025 the conference was co-hosted by France and Saudi Arabia and is, aimed at reviving the two-state solution and defining governance and peace
Plaestian Authority leaders have pushed for full authority and structural reforms to oversee any future governance of Gaza whereas Hamas has rejected to disarm multiple time has declared to regroup if deemed necessary.
This united front—combining Arab states, Europe, and the Arab League—is a watershed moment for diplomatic realignment around Gaza’s future. While not legally binding, the declaration offers a structured vision and possible framework for negotiations, humanitarian intervention, and post-war reconstruction.
