Israel moves to launch Hamas disarmament as early as March

The target date for Hamas’ disarmament has been set for March, Kan News reported on Saturday evening. According to two sources on the Peace Council, which is set to convene next week in Washington, the disarmament process is expected to begin after Gaza’s technocratic government starts operating and assumes authority from Hamas.

Preparations are already visible on the ground. Militias operating in coordination with Israel have begun making arrangements accordingly, including recruiting new members and establishing bases in areas under their control in the Strip. According to foreign reports, Israel has transferred additional equipment to the militias in recent weeks: rifles, combat gear, and new vehicles – including 2026-model Toyota Land Cruiser jeeps, the type of vehicle provided to IDF generals.

Israeli security officials are marking the Rafah area – where the new Palestinian city (“New Rafah”) is slated to be built – as the first zone to be demilitarized. The area is currently under the control of the Abu Shabab militia. Over the weekend, the militia revealed what had previously been barred from publication in Israel: its members are independently scanning and neutralizing Hamas tunnels.

Earlier this week, Kan News reported that Israel is allowing the Abu Shabab militia to secure those entering and exiting the Rafah Crossing, with the aim that its members will assume this role permanently. In a photo taken earlier this week on the Gaza side of the crossing, Rasan al-Dahini is seen accompanied by militia members.

The image sheds light on developments at the crossing, which lies within an area under Israeli responsibility. Militia members arrive at the crossing in close proximity to IDF soldiers and with Israeli approval.

Yesterday, during a tour and situation assessment in Rafah alongside senior commanders, IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir said, “We are not relinquishing the war’s objective – the full demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the disarmament of Hamas.” He added, “We have achieved an unprecedented accomplishment – all of Hamas’ frontline battalions have been destroyed. Hamas has been militarily defeated, and all of the hostages have returned home.”

However, Zamir noted that “we are operating in accordance with the directives of the political leadership, while at the same time maintaining decisive military plans and standing ready to act offensively as required.”