(VOVWORLD) - The US is pressuring Israel to permit the safe passage of some 200 Hamas operatives currently hiding in tunnels beneath Israel Defense Forces (IDF)-controlled areas of southern Gaza, Channel 12 said.
 Displaced Palestinians shelter in tents, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Gaza City, November 4, 2025. (Photo: REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa) |
According to the report, the move is being pushed by Washington as part of efforts to advance to the next stage of the emerging ceasefire framework based on President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan.
Israeli estimates suggest that roughly 200 Hamas fighters remain in tunnel systems beneath areas now controlled by the IDF, unable to surface without being detected by Israeli troops. Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir has called to shoot or arrest these fighters.
Palestinian-American businessman Bishara Bahbah, who helped mediate with Hamas over the Gaza ceasefire, told the Saudi newspaper Asharq Al-Awsat that Hamas has begun to accept the idea of handing over its heavy weapons as part of the agreement. Hamas earlier insisted that it would not agree to disarm unless a sovereign Palestinian state is established.
The Trump administration is urging Israel to allow foreign journalists into Gaza now that a ceasefire is in place, two US officials told The Times of Israel on Monday.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said on Monday that Hamas is ready to hand over control of Gaza to a Palestinian committee and also urged that the US 20-point peace plan ensure the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people.