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Key Takeaways
- The Arab League, EU, and multiple countries have jointly condemned Hamas’s October 7 attacks and called for disarmament, marking a historic shift in regional diplomacy.
- Arab nations signed a declaration urging Hamas to transfer control of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority, supporting the two-state solution.
- The declaration includes proposals for an international stabilization mission under the UN to oversee ceasefire, humanitarian aid, and governance transition.
- This consensus indicates potential normalization of relations with Israel, conditional on progress toward peace and Palestinian self-determination.
- The move increases pressure on Hamas to moderate or step aside, aiming to break decades of conflict and facilitate peace efforts.
Table of Contents
A Historic Shift by Arab States
A Historic Shift by Arab States
On July 30, 2025, Arab nations including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, and Turkey jointly signed a landmark seven-page declaration at a United Nations conference held in New York. This declaration calls on Hamas to end its governance of Gaza and hand over its weapons to the Palestinian Authority, under international supervision aimed at establishing a sovereign and independent Palestinian State[1][4].
French and Saudi officials who co-chaired the event described the declaration as “historic and unprecedented,” marking the first time the Arab League publicly rebuked Hamas for its deadly raid on Israel on October 7, 2023. The attack, which resulted in about 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages taken, sparked a devastating war in Gaza[3][4].
Key Points of the Declaration
- Condemnation of Hamas’s October 7th attack: The document denounces the Hamas assault as terrorism, aligning Arab nations’ position with the international community’s call for peace[2][4].
- Call for Hamas disarmament and political exclusion: It urges Hamas to transfer control to the Palestinian Authority, viewed as a more moderate and internationally recognized governance body[3][4].
- Support for the two-state solution: The declaration recommits all signatories to advancing a just, peaceful, and lasting resolution, including recognition of the Palestinian state[2][4].
- Proposal for an international stabilization mission: Under the UN Security Council, a temporary mission would oversee ceasefire monitoring, humanitarian aid protection, and governance transition in Gaza[4].
Broader Implications
This momentous consensus among Arab countries signals a major geopolitical realignment. It suggests a willingness by these states to normalize relations with Israel in the future—conditional on progress toward peace and Palestinian self-determination. The move also isolates Hamas as an impediment to peace and reconstruction in Gaza, increasing pressure on the militant group to moderate or step aside[2].
Moreover, the declaration reflects growing frustration with prolonged conflict’s humanitarian toll and stalled diplomacy. By advocating for international engagement and a phased peace plan, these countries aim to break decades of deadlock and instability[1][4].
What’s Next?
The declaration sets the stage for discussions at the upcoming UN General Assembly in September 2025, where global leaders will debate practical steps to implement the two-state solution framework. High-level working groups formed at the conference will develop proposals addressing security, governance, humanitarian access, and political reconciliation[3][4].
For readers following the Middle East peace process, this marks a critical turning point that could reshape the region’s dynamics and offers cautious hope for an end to violence and a future Palestinian state.
FAQ
What does the Arab League’s call for Hamas disarmament signify?
It represents a major shift in regional policy, condemning Hamas’s October 7 attacks and urging the group to relinquish control over Gaza, supporting a path toward peace and a two-state solution.
How might this declaration affect the Israel-Palestine conflict?
The declaration’s call for disarmament and political transition aims to reduce violence, promote stability, and foster negotiations for a peaceful resolution, though implementation remains challenging.
What are the next steps following this declaration?
Upcoming discussions at the UN General Assembly and the development of proposals by high-level working groups will shape future actions, including potential peace initiatives and peacekeeping efforts.