Bolton Addresses Gaza Peace Efforts
John Bolton, who served as national security adviser under President Trump, stated on Tuesday that achieving peace in Gaza hinges on demilitarizing Hamas.
In an interview on NewsNation’s “On Balance with Leland Wittert,” Bolton noted, “The next important step for real peace in Gaza is tackling the issue of demilitarizing Hamas.”
He emphasized that while securing the release of the remaining 20 Israeli hostages is vital—released from captivity on Monday—it’s equally crucial for Israel to take control of Gaza’s extensive underground tunnel system.
Bolton questioned Hamas’s commitment to return all deceased hostages, acknowledging, “Everyone agrees on the necessity of bringing back Israeli hostages.”
He elaborated, “The focus now should be on disarming Hamas fighters and allowing the IDF full access to the tunnel infrastructure in order to eliminate it.” He conveyed concern that without this step, the peace plan can’t progress, mentioning that developments seem to be underway.
On Monday, President Trump facilitated the release of the 20 living hostages held by Hamas for over two years, raising criticism for not insisting that Hamas disarm first. There are ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate the remains of other hostages kidnapped during the October 7, 2023, attack.
This initial release of hostages is part of a two-phase negotiation embedded in Trump’s 20-point peace plan, with the second phase revolving around whether Hamas will disarm, renounce violence, or face expulsion from Gaza.
However, a ceasefire has followed with Hamas reportedly carrying out retaliatory executions and asserting control over certain regions in Gaza that Israel has vacated. A Reuters report indicated that at least 33 people were killed, with reports of seven men being dragged into Gaza City Square.
Bolton expressed skepticism toward any public commitments from Hamas, a group designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S., indicating it is clear that Hamas aims to reestablish dominance in the area.
He remarked, “Hamas isn’t just executing dissenters. It’s working to regain control to prepare for future conflicts. Anyone who fails to understand this lacks the perspective to assess the situation accurately.”
From the White House, President Trump declared on Tuesday that if Hamas does not disarm, “we will disarm them.” His peace framework permits Israel to resume hostilities in Gaza should Hamas refuse to surrender fully.
He stated, “If they don’t disarm, we will act quickly and likely violently,” specifying that he has given the group a “reasonable period of time” for compliance.
