Gaza Peace Process Enters Second Phase Amid Ongoing Challenges

The U.S. is taking a decisive step forward in the Gaza peace process with the initiation of the second phase of a ceasefire arrangement. Spearheaded by Steve Witkoff, this new phase comes despite the ongoing challenges posed by the presence of unreturned remains and the uncertainties surrounding Hamas’s disarmament.

Why It Matters

This new phase is significant as it reflects a concerted effort by the U.S. to stabilize the region following years of conflict. However, the plan’s success hinges on addressing formidable challenges, including Hamas’s disarmament and the broader reconstruction of Gaza, a territory devastated by recent violence.

Key Developments

• Steve Witkoff has announced the commencement of the second phase of the ceasefire.
• The remains of Ran Gvili have yet to be returned, and Hamas has not indicated plans to do so.
• A new administrative structure will be established to govern Gaza, comprising:
  • A body of Palestinian technocrats led by Ali Shaath.
  • An executive committee featuring key U.S. and Israeli officials, including Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
  • A top-tier "Board of Peace" chaired by Donald Trump, which will invite international leaders to participate.

Full Report

New Administrative Structure

In a bid to manage the complexities of governance in Gaza, a tripartite administrative structure has been proposed. At the forefront will be a group of Palestinian technocrats, with Ali Shaath at the helm. Shaath, who hails from Gaza and has extensive training in urban planning, is expected to play a critical role in the region’s future.

The executive committee will also include Witkoff and other American and Israeli officials. This group previously faced criticism for its involvement with the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, an organization accused of fostering inefficiencies in aid distribution.

At the pinnacle of this framework is the "Board of Peace," to be led by former President Donald Trump. Invitations have been extended to numerous global leaders, including the U.K.’s Keir Starmer and Italy’s Giorgia Meloni. While Trump has expressed confidence in the board’s influence, potential participants are cautious due to concerns over the plan’s transparency and effectiveness.

Challenges Ahead

Amid these developments, significant obstacles remain. The peace plan obligates Hamas to disarm, but key questions linger: Which weapons are deemed acceptable, and who will enforce compliance? Additionally, the plan envisions an Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, yet experts argue that such a withdrawal is unlikely as long as Hamas retains any armament.

Moreover, ongoing hostilities have already resulted in over 400 fatalities in Gaza since the ceasefire took effect. This backdrop complicates the prospect of moving forward with reconstruction, as many basic resources and essential services remain critically low.

What Lies Ahead

The timeline for reconstruction and governance in Gaza is uncertain. It’s unclear whether construction efforts will commence under Shaath’s leadership or if Israeli conditions linked to Hamas disarmament will stall progress. As the second phase unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the current pledges will translate into actionable policies or whether this initiative will stall amidst ongoing conflict.

Context & Previous Events

The initiation of the second phase follows a previous ceasefire agreement, during which all living hostages were returned, but one notable case—the remains of Ran Gvili—remains unresolved. The ongoing situation in Gaza continues to pose extensive challenges, including humanitarian needs intensified by recent violence and destruction.