Part 5/9:
A crucial point Krikus highlighted was the misconception held by some international actors that Hamas can be disarmed and demilitarized through diplomacy or promises. Abbas had assured Albanese and other leaders that Hamas would disarm, but Krikus dismissed such assurances as unrealistic.
"Hamas will never disarm voluntarily while it holds military power and political influence," he asserted. Without defeating Hamas—either militarily or through effective diplomatic pressure—any hopes of peace or disarmament are illusions. Krikus recounted Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza in 2005, which led to Hamas taking control and turning Gaza into what he called "Kamastan," implying a terrorist enclave.