Afghanistan, May 3 -- Hamas has refused to fully disarm under a proposal discussed in Cairo, linking any surrender of weapons to the creation of an independent Palestinian state, diplomats said.
According to officials familiar with the talks, Hamas told mediators that disarmament could only be considered within a broader political framework that guarantees Palestinian self-determination.
The proposal, backed by the United States, envisions a phased disarmament process as part of post-war arrangements for the Gaza Strip.
Hamas has instead demanded clearer assurances on statehood before entering negotiations on relinquishing its weapons, highlighting major gaps in ongoing discussions.
The group also accused Israel of violating the initial...