New Delhi, Feb 13 (NationPress) Israel's Ambassador to India, Reuven Azar, claimed on Friday that Hamas is backtracking on its commitment to demilitarisation. Azar voiced hope that the United States and other members of the 'Board of Peace' will exert pressure on the militant group to uphold its pledges, paving the way for the reconstruction of Gaza.

In an interview with IANS, Azar emphasized that US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan for Gaza represents the most promising diplomatic solution to the lingering issues in the region. He observed that Israel has successfully dismantled a significant portion of Hamas's military capabilities.

When questioned about the US-led ceasefire in Gaza, Azar stated, "The 20-point Trump plan is our best opportunity to diplomatically address the ongoing challenges in Gaza. Israel has effectively neutralized much of Hamas's military strength and has gained control over more than half of Gaza. By adopting this 20-point plan, Hamas is expected to commit to demilitarisation."

"We aim for them to disarm through diplomatic channels. This is their obligation. Sadly, they are now retreating from this commitment. Nevertheless, we trust the United States and the nations involved in the Board of Peace to apply pressure on Hamas to demilitarise, allowing us to proceed with the rebuilding of the Gaza Strip. No one will invest in Gaza's reconstruction while a terrorist organization continues to exert control and jeopardize regional stability," he added.

Azar underscored that diplomacy is the appropriate method to compel Hamas to disarm, yet he cautioned about the possibility of military action should diplomatic efforts falter.

"We want to prioritize diplomatic efforts. We believe it is not only correct to pressure Hamas to disarm, but it also serves as a viable alternative. If diplomacy fails, we may have to consider military options, which we prefer to avoid," the diplomat remarked.

He pointed out that Hamas frequently violates ceasefire agreements by crossing the yellow line and attempting to attack Israeli forces.

"Regrettably, Hamas continues to breach the ceasefire occasionally by crossing the yellow line, undermining our forces, or attempting to restore their military capabilities. Israel adheres to the ceasefire terms that prohibit such actions. Thus, when such activities occur, we respond decisively," he stated.

Last month, Trump declared that the US has officially entered the next stage of its Gaza peace initiative, endorsing a newly appointed Palestinian technocratic government and demanding full demilitarisation of Hamas, which includes surrendering all weapons and dismantling tunnel networks.