Blair says Hamas must accept Gaza demilitarization for peace plan to advance

RIYADH, April 28 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) - Tony Blair said Hamas must accept the demilitarization of Gaza and Israel must meet its obligations, including withdrawal from most of the territory, for a peace process to move forward.

Speaking at a U.N. Security Council ministerial meeting on Tuesday, Blair said talks on Gaza demilitarization with Hamas were continuing.

He called on the council’s 15 members to maintain political support for implementation of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan and to provide funding for shelter, health, water and sanitation.

Blair said there would be no peace in Gaza until the threat of violence against Israel ended, and added that restrictions would be lifted if Hamas and other militants disarmed.

He also said reconstruction plans under discussion were based on a reimagined Gaza with a port, free movement of people and goods, proper infrastructure, new housing and access to the digital economy.