DOHA, Qatar (AP) — The initial phase of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas is approaching completion, even as one hostage remains in Gaza. Key stakeholders, including the U.S., Israel, and Hamas, now face a complicated second phase that carries the potential to significantly alter the Middle Eastern landscape.
This development matters as it could pave the way for substantial changes in governance and security in Gaza, potentially affecting millions of lives. However, the fragile nature of the ceasefire raises questions about its sustainability and the prospect of long-term peace in the region.
Key Developments
- The U.S. has outlined a 20-point plan aimed at ending Hamas’ governance in Gaza, which has been approved by the U.N. Security Council.
- President Donald Trump plans to lead an international board overseeing reconstruction and governance in Gaza, although its membership remains unconfirmed.
- The creation of an International Stabilization Force is proposed to maintain security; however, concerns linger over its command structure and deployment timeline.
- Hamas has voiced opposition to disarmament unless Israel ends its occupation, complicating the terms of the ceasefire.
- Israel is expected to withdraw from most of Gaza, but the timeline for future withdrawals remains uncertain.
Full Report
Ceasefire Progress and Challenges
The U.S.-brokered ceasefire has reached a critical juncture. Following two months of delays and negotiations, the initial phase is nearing completion, but its next steps are fraught with complications. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani emphasized the importance of moving forward with caution, indicating that discussions will soon intensify as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepares for talks in Washington.
International Stabilization Force
As part of the overarching plan, an International Stabilization Force is anticipated to be formed to oversee security and help train Palestinian police. While several nations, including Egypt and Turkey, have shown interest in contributing to this force, no formal commitments have been made. A U.S. official indicated that discussions among potential partners could lead to the deployment of troops by early 2026. However, the effectiveness of this force hangs in the balance due to a lack of clarity on its command and operational structure.
Oversight and Governance
President Trump has also signaled his intention to chair a forthcoming international board responsible for managing Gaza’s administrative needs. This board will guide reconstruction efforts as part of a long-term reform initiative led by the Palestinian Authority. Names for additional board members are expected to be announced soon, but the task of forming a collaborative body that includes international aid agencies and both Israeli and Palestinian representatives remains daunting.
Economic Development and Disarmament
No specific economic development strategies have been revealed as of yet, despite the urgency surrounding Gaza’s rebuilding, estimated to cost around $70 billion. Egypt is slated to host a donor conference aimed at securing necessary funding, but significant hurdles remain in coordinating international support.
Furthermore, Hamas must consider plans for disarmament under international supervision, a condition it seems reluctant to accept outright. The group’s officials have suggested alternatives such as “freezing or storing” weapons during negotiations, a proposal that may not suffice to assuage Israeli fears or facilitate broader trust.
Israeli Withdrawals and Palestinian Governance
The terms of the ceasefire indicate that Israel will gradually withdraw from Gaza, except for a small buffer zone along the border. However, Israeli military leadership has already expressed reservations over further withdrawals, complicating future negotiations. In parallel, a new Palestinian committee is to be established, though its composition will need to satisfy both Israeli security concerns and the expectations of Palestinian representation.
Context & Previous Events
Trump’s 20-point plan has received the endorsement of the U.N. Security Council, extending a unique opportunity for ending Hamas’ governance in Gaza. However, previous instances of stalled agreements leave many skeptical about this new initiative. As stakeholders convene to navigate complex negotiations, the implications for peace and stability in the region remain tenuous.
