The second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, slated to begin in early January, faces significant hurdles, according to US Envoy Stephen Whitkopf. The announcement of this phase is expected to be followed by a meeting between President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on December 29th.
However, several key issues threaten to derail the transition. One major obstacle is the difficulty in forming a multinational peacekeeping force. Furthermore, Tel Aviv is insisting on the disarmament of Hamas before withdrawing from Gaza and demanding the return of all remaining captive remains.
These demands are proving to be sticking points in the negotiation process.
Simultaneously, Hamas has voiced concerns over perceived Israeli efforts to undermine the transition to the second phase. The organization is calling for international pressure to ensure Israel adheres to the agreement without attempting to sabotage it.
The successful implementation of the next phase hinges on overcoming these obstacles and ensuring both sides commit to the terms of the agreement. Failure to do so could jeopardize the fragile ceasefire and lead to renewed conflict in the region.
The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the second phase can proceed as planned, or if the existing challenges will prove insurmountable. The international community is closely watching the situation, hoping for a peaceful resolution and a lasting end to the conflict.
The potential meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu is viewed by some as a crucial opportunity to address these concerns directly and find a path forward. However, the complexities of the situation and the deeply entrenched positions of both sides make a breakthrough far from guaranteed.
