A Hamas leader: The movement will maintain security control in Gaza.

Statements made in interviews on Friday revealed deep gaps threatening the future of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza, as prominent Hamas leader Mohammed Nazal confirmed that the movement intends to maintain security control in the sector and cannot guarantee the issue of disarming itself.

In response, the office of the occupying Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, replied sharply, asserting that the disarmament of Hamas is a "settled issue," and that "time is running out" for the movement to fully comply with the American plan.

In an interview with Reuters from Doha, Mohammed Nazal, a member of Hamas's political bureau, clarified the movement's vision for the upcoming phase, confirming its readiness for a truce that could last up to five years to allow for the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, but he linked this to the existence of clear international guarantees that provide "horizon and hope for the Palestinian people" to establish an independent state.

Although these statements reflect flexibility regarding the duration of the ceasefire, they revealed major obstacles to the full implementation of President Donald Trump's plan.

When asked whether Hamas would give up its weapons, Nazal said: "I cannot answer yes or no; frankly, it depends on the nature of the disarmament project."

He also defended the recent security measures taken by the movement in Gaza, including public executions, considering them "exceptional measures in wartime conditions."

The response from Netanyahu's office was swift and decisive, stating in a statement to Reuters: "Hamas must adhere to the twenty-point plan. Time is running out for them."

The statement accused the movement of not fully complying with the first phase, saying: "Hamas is supposed to release all detainees in the first phase, but it has not done so. Hamas knows the location of our captives' bodies."

The statement confirmed that "the disarmament of Hamas will happen, with no conditions or exceptions."

These developments come at a time when diplomatic efforts continue, as U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit the region on Sunday to follow up on the implementation of the plan, while Egyptian-mediated talks continue regarding the issue of returning the bodies of the captives.

This stark contrast in positions reflects the magnitude of the difficulties facing the second phase of the agreement, which addresses core issues such as disarmament and the future management of the sector.

While the Trump administration pushes for a quick settlement, these statements indicate that the road to lasting peace remains long and fraught with major obstacles that have thwarted all previous attempts.