A source close to the Hamas negotiating committee told AFP on Sunday that the movement will not participate in governing the Gaza Strip after the war. The statement came on the eve of the conflict resolution summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, where leaders from more than 20 countries will gather to discuss a ceasefire plan.

The source's comments came just days after the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect. The two sides are currently consulting on the implementation of US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan, which calls for disarming Hamas and excluding the group from the post-war administration of the enclave.

"For Hamas, the question of governing the Gaza Strip is closed. Hamas will not participate in the transition period in any way, which means relinquishing control of the enclave, but at the same time, it remains an integral part of the Palestinian fabric." "The source told AFP on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the topic.

Unlike other centrally structured militant groups in the region, Hamas's leadership has historically disagreed on key issues, including the future of Gaza. However, on the issue of disarmament, there is unanimity among the top brass: this is the so-called red line.

"Hamas agrees to a long-term ceasefire and that its weapons will not be used during this period, except in the event of an Israeli attack on Gaza," - noted the source.

Earlier, another Hamas official, who also wished to remain anonymous, told AFP that disarmament was "not under discussion."

The first point of Trump's plan calls for turning Gaza into a "zone free of radicalism and terror, posing no threat to its neighbors." The document also emphasizes the absence of a role for Hamas in future governance, as well as the need to destroy and prevent the rebuilding of its military infrastructure and arsenals.