In a bold statement this Saturday, Hamas declared it will not disarm until an independent Palestinian state is created. This marks a significant challenge to a major Israeli demand amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Recent indirect negotiations aimed at securing a 60-day ceasefire and dealing with hostage situations between Hamas and Israel ended in deadlock last week, leaving both sides at a standstill.

Qatar and Egypt, acting as mediators, have backed a joint declaration from France and Saudi Arabia, proposing steps towards a two-state solution. A crucial part of this plan hinges on Hamas disarming and transferring its weapons to the Western-backed Palestinian Authority.

However, Hamas, which has maintained control over Gaza since 2007, emphatically stated that it will not renounce its right to "armed resistance" unless a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established with Jerusalem as its capital. This defiance comes despite the extensive Israeli military efforts, which have significantly weakened the group during the ongoing conflict.

The disarmament of Hamas is viewed by Israel as a vital condition for any peace deal, but the group has consistently rejected the idea of laying down its arms.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced stern opposition to the concept of a future Palestinian state, labeling it a potential base for further attacks against Israel. He criticized nations like the U.K. and Canada for their plans to recognize Palestinian statehood amidst the devastation in Gaza, claiming it rewards Hamas for its actions.

The conflict escalated dramatically when Hamas militants launched an attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the abduction of 251 hostages.

In retaliation, Israel's military response has devastated Gaza, leading to over 60,000 Palestinian fatalities and triggering a severe humanitarian crisis that has captured global attention.

As blame continues to be exchanged following the failed negotiations, significant gaps remain in discussions, particularly concerning the terms of an Israeli military withdrawal, indicating that a resolution to this deeply entrenched conflict is still far from reach.