Sun Oct 05 03:54:41 UTC 2025: **Headline: Netanyahu Vows to Disarm Hamas “The Easy or the Hard Way” as Hostage Release Looms**

**Gaza City –** Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared on Sunday that Hamas will be disarmed, either through diplomatic means via US President Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan, or by Israeli military action. His statement came a day after Hamas accepted key elements of Trump’s proposal, including the release of all hostages.

“Hamas will be disarmed, and Gaza will be demilitarized,” Netanyahu stated in a video message. “This will happen either diplomatically through Trump’s plan or militarily by us. This will happen either the easy way or the hard way.”

Netanyahu also indicated that a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, a long-standing Hamas demand, is not on the table. He affirmed that the Israeli military would maintain control over territories it currently holds within Gaza.

The announcement coincides with preparations for talks between Israel and Hamas in Egypt on Monday. Netanyahu expressed optimism that the release of all hostages could be announced in the coming days, potentially during the Sukkot holiday.

The developments follow an ultimatum issued by President Trump to Hamas, demanding acceptance of his peace plan by Sunday evening or face severe consequences. The plan includes ending the war, the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and aid for Gaza’s recovery.

Despite Trump’s calls for de-escalation, Israeli strikes in Gaza on Saturday resulted in the deaths of six people, according to Reuters.

Earlier on Sunday, Trump claimed that Israel had agreed to an initial withdrawal line, awaiting confirmation from Hamas to implement a ceasefire and begin the hostage and prisoner exchange.

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