The Palestinian Authority (PA) has voiced support for the disarmament of Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups, declaring there is “no room for militias” in future governance of Gaza and the West Bank, according to an exclusive interview with Fatah Secretary-General Jibril Rajoub published by The Jerusalem Post.

Why it matters

The PA’s stance marks a notable shift in Palestinian political rhetoric at a time when discussions about postwar governance in Gaza are gaining urgency. Calls for armed groups to disarm could impact negotiations around security control, influence the balance of power between Palestinian factions, and shape any future peace or reconstruction framework supported by neighboring Arab states.

What to know

According to the interview:

• Rajoub said that disarmament of Palestinian armed factions should be negotiated under the auspices of Arab states, especially Egypt, rather than unilaterally imposed.
• He emphasized that the PA will not accept a “state-within-a-state” model in Gaza or the West Bank, indirectly referencing fears about autonomous armed groups gaining influence.
• Rajoub stated that “all Palestinian armed groups must give up their weapons regardless of political affiliation,” advocating for “one authority, one law, one weapon.”
• He linked potential inclusion of armed groups in political life to their acceptance of the PLO’s political program, including recognition of Israel and commitment to nonviolent resistance.
• The PA is positioning itself to play a role in postwar civilian and security arrangements in Gaza, but Israel has resisted the PA’s return without significant reforms.

What people are saying

PA officials see disarmament as a necessary step toward unified Palestinian governance and a way to prevent fragmentation similar to the situation in Lebanon, where non-state armed groups hold significant influence. Critics argue this position may be difficult to implement given longstanding divisions between Hamas and the PA and the reality of ongoing conflict dynamics.

What happens next

For Rajoub’s vision to move forward, discussions with regional actors — particularly Egypt and other Arab states — are likely to be central. Any progress will depend on negotiation outcomes, internal Palestinian politics, and international diplomatic pressures tied to reconstruction aid and security arrangements in Gaza and the West Bank.