Israel: Hamas Accused of Blocking Gaza’s Reconstruction by Refusing to Disarm

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Israel has reiterated its support for the proposed US-backed framework to reshape Gaza’s future, accusing Hamas of obstructing reconstruction efforts by refusing to surrender its weapons. The dispute highlights the continuing gap between diplomatic commitments, security requirements and the urgent humanitarian needs of the Palestinian population.

In a statement issued by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, Israeli authorities said they were working closely with Washington and the Board of Peace to advance US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza. The proposed framework makes the disarmament of Hamas and the demilitarization of the territory key conditions ahead of large-scale reconstruction.

According to the Israeli government, Hamas has yet to hand over any weapons, while continuing to strengthen its military capabilities. Officials argue that the group's refusal to disarm is preventing progress towards the next phase of the plan.

Israel Raises Concerns Over the Use of Civilian Supplies

Israeli authorities have also accused Hamas of diverting materials and infrastructure originally intended for civilian purposes to support its military activities.

The allegations include the use of construction cement to build underground tunnels, the conversion of water pipes into missile-launching equipment and the repurposing of sewage pumps to manufacture rockets.

The Israeli government has further criticized the United Nations and the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), accusing them of failing to adequately address the alleged diversion of humanitarian assistance.

Jerusalem maintains that materials with potential military applications could be exploited as long as Hamas retains control over Gaza. This concern remains central to Israel's position on the conditions required for reconstruction.

Winter Assistance Programme Targets Gaza's Most Urgent Needs

Alongside its security-related demands, Israel says additional humanitarian supplies have been allowed into Gaza to help residents cope with deteriorating winter conditions.

The Israeli body responsible for coordinating government activities in the Palestinian territories, COGAT, has outlined a winter preparedness initiative implemented in cooperation with the Board of Peace, the United Nations, international organizations and donor countries.

According to the figures released by Israeli authorities, the programme has facilitated the delivery of more than 91,000 tents and over 8,200 trucks carrying essential supplies. These shipments include tarpaulins, blankets, warm clothing and other equipment intended to support displaced families.

The initiative also includes 12 trucks equipped with pumping equipment to help remove wastewater, alongside efforts to repair water distribution and sanitation networks. Fuel supplies have additionally been provided to keep pumping facilities operational.

Israel says it intends to continue facilitating humanitarian assistance while ensuring that equipment entering the territory does not contribute to the reconstruction of Hamas's military infrastructure.

Reconstruction Remains Tied to Security Arrangements

The Israeli government's latest statement places the question of disarmament at the centre of discussions over Gaza's post-war future. Netanyahu's office maintains that Hamas bears responsibility for the continuing suffering of the population and links the group's refusal to surrender its weapons to the difficulties surrounding reconstruction.

However, the scale of Gaza's humanitarian requirements makes the issue particularly urgent. Shelter, sanitation, access to clean water and the restoration of essential infrastructure remain critical priorities for residents facing the consequences of prolonged conflict.

The central challenge for the international partners involved in the proposed framework will be to reconcile security conditions with the immediate needs of civilians and establish a viable path towards rebuilding the territory.

For now, the disagreement over disarmament continues to cast uncertainty over the implementation of the reconstruction plan and the prospects for a more stable future in Gaza.