Doha (QNN)- Khaled Mashal, head of Hamas’ political bureau abroad, has rejected calls to disarm the Palestinian resistance under Israeli occupation, warning that such demands aim to turn Palestinians into an easy target for elimination rather than a protected civilian population. He made the remarks while outlining Hamas’ approach to the weapons issue during his speech at Al Jazeera Forum 17 in Doha.
Mashal said that discussing weapons within a broader framework that enables Gaza’s reconstruction, delivers humanitarian relief, and prevents renewed war is a logical starting point. He stressed that this discussion must take place through international mediators and be based on guarantees rather than Israeli blackmail. According to Mashal, the goal is to reach a formula that stabilizes Gaza without stripping Palestinians of their means of self-defense under occupation.
In earlier remarks referenced during his speech, Mashal revealed details of Hamas’ response to Israeli demands for disarmament. He said the movement has presented an equation to various parties centered on preventing the return of Israel's war on Gaza. That approach, he explained, focuses on how weapons can be safeguarded, concealed, and not used or displayed, rather than surrendered. He framed this as a practical mechanism to ensure calm while preserving a deterrent force.
Mashal also said the resistance proposed a long-term truce as a genuine guarantee against future war. He stated that the real source of danger is Israel, not Gaza, which is being pressured to disarm. In this context, he described Palestinian disarmament as equivalent to “removing the soul,” reflecting the belief that weapons under occupation represent survival rather than aggression.
He further expressed confidence that Hamas can persuade the US administration to accept its approach to the weapons file. Mashal said this belief rests on the pragmatic mindset of American decision-makers. He said that such pragmatism could lead Washington to impose this framework on Israel if it proves effective in preventing renewed fighting. According to Mashal, mediators are already discussing this proposal with US officials.
