Table of Contents
The Israel-Palestine conflict has reached a new chapter with the announcement of a second phase in the Gaza ceasefire agreement. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has voiced serious concerns about the implications of this phase, describing it as largely symbolic. This skepticism underscores the complexities of actual implementation and the numerous challenges that lie ahead.
In a discussion with the parents of St.-Sgt.-Maj. Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage believed to be in Gaza, Netanyahu emphasized that the formation of a Palestinian governing committee is merely a declarative action. This position contrasts sharply with the optimistic outlook presented by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, who characterized the new phase as a potential step toward meaningful progress.
Understanding the ceasefire’s new phase
The announcement of this second phase marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing peace efforts between Israel and Gaza. U.S. envoy Witkoff noted that this phase aims to facilitate the disarmament of Hamas, establish a technocratic governing body, and support the reconstruction of Gaza. However, the details of how these objectives will be realized remain unclear, particularly concerning the establishment of an apolitical governing committee and an international Board of Peace.
Challenges in governance and disarmament
A key obstacle to the second phase of the ceasefire is the disarmament of Hamas, which has governed Gaza for nearly two decades. While Hamas has expressed a willingness to dissolve its current administration, it remains ambiguous regarding the status of its military operations and the numerous affiliated civil servants and police. This lack of clarity raises concerns about the viability of transitioning to a new governance structure.
Bassem Naim, a member of Hamas’s political bureau, welcomed the announcement of the new committee as a step toward an independent Palestinian state. He asserted that the responsibility now lies with the United States and international mediators to ensure the committee operates effectively. However, Israel’s demand for Hamas to disarm complicates matters significantly, especially considering the group’s long-standing commitment to resistance.
Ongoing violence amidst hopes for peace
Despite the formal announcement of a second phase, the situation on the ground presents a starkly different reality. Palestinian civilians in Gaza have expressed skepticism regarding the potential changes this new phase may bring, as they continue to endure violence and humanitarian crises. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, over 450 individuals have lost their lives since the ceasefire began, with children among the casualties.
Residents such as Samed Abu Rawagh, displaced to southern Gaza, lament the ongoing suffering, stating, “Every day there is suffering in the tents, in the rain and the sun, from sun to rain to death.” Such remarks reflect a deep-seated frustration with political processes that appear disconnected from the harsh realities faced by the people in Gaza.
Anticipating tangible changes
As residents await the promises associated with the ceasefire’s second phase, many are looking for concrete improvements, such as better access to essential needs like food, fuel, and healthcare. A man named Hamza Abu Shahab from Khan Younis voiced a prevalent sentiment, expressing hope that the announcements are not merely empty words. He stated, “We need this news to be real, because in the second phase we will be able to return to our homes and our areas… God willing, it won’t just be empty promises.”
The situation in Gaza is further compounded by the harsh winter, with approximately two million residents struggling to secure adequate shelter and humanitarian assistance. This marks the third winter since the conflict escalated on October 7, 2026, highlighting a significant increase in violence and loss.
As the international community closely monitors developments, the next steps in this fragile peace process will be critical. With Netanyahu’s doubts and the complexities of disarmament and governance looming, the path toward lasting peace remains fraught with challenges.