Israel’s PM Announces Imminent Second Phase of Gaza Peace Plan
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently announced that the second phase of the Gaza peace plan, brokered by the United States, is approaching completion. However, major issues still need resolution before its implementation. This phase aims for Israeli troops to withdraw further from Gaza while setting up a transitional authority and deploying an international security force.
Key Developments in the Gaza Peace Plan
The second phase of the plan, initiated by President Donald Trump, envisions the disarmament of Hamas and the commencement of reconstruction in Gaza. A senior official indicated that Hamas is considering options to “freeze or store” its weapons, demonstrating a potential shift in their stance.
Continued Mediation Efforts
The United States and other mediators continue to put pressure on both parties to transition to the next phases of the peace plan. In related efforts, a team from the Red Cross, alongside members of Hamas’s armed wing, has resumed searching for Sergeant Ran Gvili, an Israeli police officer killed during the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023. His body is expected to be returned under the terms of the initial ceasefire agreement.
Current Conditions in Gaza
Despite a ceasefire now in effect for two months, both Israel and Hamas accuse one another of ongoing violations. Israeli forces maintain control over more than half of Gaza, while Hamas has reasserted its presence in other regions.
- Date of Initial Attacks: October 7, 2023
- Date of Planned Meeting: December 29, 2023
- Hostage Details: 20 living hostages returned, remains of 28 dead hostages still in Gaza
Concerns about Disarmament and International Support
During a press conference, Netanyahu reiterated that Hamas’s rule in Gaza must end and emphasized the need for the group to disarm. He expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of a multinational force tasked with disarming Hamas. “Are there volunteers here?” he asked, indicating doubt about foreign troops’ willingness to engage.
Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s commitment to ensuring disarmament, stating, “It can be done the easy way, or the hard way.” Meanwhile, a prominent Hamas official confirmed their readiness to discuss the possibility of weapon storage as a step toward de-escalation.
Humanitarian Situation and Ongoing Negotiations
Although humanitarian agencies report an increase in supplies reaching Gaza, challenges persist due to Israeli restrictions. An important point of contention remains the Rafah border crossing, which Gaza and Egypt insist should be open in both directions to allow for humanitarian aid.
Following the ceasefire agreement, Israel has been accused of delaying the return of deceased hostages while Hamas claims Israel has not fulfilled key ceasefire commitments. The situation remains fraught as tensions continue to exist between the two sides, with both further negotiations and further escalations anticipated.
The second phase of the Gaza peace plan is seen as crucial in achieving lasting resolution amidst the ongoing conflict. With key discussions scheduled between Netanyahu and President Trump, the international community watches closely for developments.
