Gaza City – Significant political and security complexities are impeding the transition to the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, according to analysts. Continued Israeli violations and disagreements over the formation of an international stabilization force and a technocratic government are major sticking points.
Douglas Bandow, a senior fellow at the Cato Institute and former special assistant to President Ronald Reagan, highlighted the lack of a genuine ceasefire as the primary obstacle. He stated that alleged Israeli violations of the truce undermine any political progress.
Bandow pointed to several challenges facing Washington, including the contentious issue of disarming Hamas, a condition the movement reportedly rejects. Disputes also persist regarding the composition of the stabilization force, with Israel reportedly objecting to Turkish participation and seeking to limit the force’s involvement in disarmament efforts.
Critics have condemned ongoing military operations and restrictions on humanitarian aid entering Gaza, arguing that such actions contradict any talk of peace or a technocratic government. Concerns are mounting over the well-being of civilians, particularly children, who are reportedly suffering due to ongoing conflict and restricted aid access.
Regarding the U.S. role, some observers argue that the current administration has not exerted sufficient pressure on the Israeli government, despite reported violations. They maintain that Washington must acknowledge that continued Israeli actions are hindering the implementation of the agreement.
Dr. Ibrahim Al-Khatib, a professor of international conflict management, emphasized the need to resolve three key issues to facilitate the transition to the next phase. These include defining the nature and mandate of the international stabilization force to ensure it does not become an occupying force, but rather focuses on maintaining calm and stability. The future of the Gaza strip remains uncertain amid the ongoing conflict.
