Hamas Military Wing: Disarmament Demands 'Not Acceptable' — Qassam Brigades Spokesman Speaks Out

On April 5, 2026, Abu Obeida — spokesman for Hamas's Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades — made televised remarks rejecting disarmament demands as 'not acceptable' in a 'crude manner.' He described disarmament attempts as 'a way for Israel to continue genocide against Palestinians,' framing the Board of Peace proposal as a cover for Israeli military objectives rather than genuine reconstruction. Obeida emphasized that the Qassam Brigades would not surrender weapons while Israeli military operations continue elsewhere (referencing the Israel-Iran theater). The statement represents the military wing's position, which analysts note often diverges from the political bureau's more measured diplomatic posture. The remarks effectively hardened Hamas's public stance ahead of any potential Phase 2 ceasefire negotiations.