Hamas Announces Disarmament Deal Amid Ongoing Middle East Tensions

Hamas said it will begin disarming under a U.S.-brokered agreement that also calls for Israel to halt strikes and withdraw from Gaza, while Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reported attacks on tankers and Kuwait intercepted drones.

Hamas publicly affirmed that it will commence disarmament under a Trump-mediated arrangement that obliges Israel to cease its bombardment and withdraw from Gaza, with the final surrender of heavy arms linked to the creation of a Palestinian state—a condition Israel rejects. Israel has not issued an official response to the announcement, and the cease-fire framework, first outlined in October, remains stalled amid mutual accusations of violations.

In parallel, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard reported striking two oil tankers navigating the Strait of Hormuz, a critical conduit for global energy supplies, while Iranian state media said drones targeted a Kuwaiti air base. Kuwait’s defense ministry confirmed it intercepted drones over its territory, causing material damage but no casualties. Saudi Arabia unveiled a plan for a 14-country defense pact aimed at safeguarding maritime navigation in the Red Sea, drawing participation from Turkey, Egypt, Pakistan and others, though Oman and the United Arab Emirates abstained. The developments reflect a volatile mix of diplomatic overtures and military actions across the region.