Upon unveiling his recent peace initiative in Sharm el-Sheikh to commemorate the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, Donald Trump hailed it as a breakthrough, claiming it to be the “first genuine peace in the Middle East in 3,000 years” and even suggesting a potential Nobel Peace Prize. However, the initial optimism surrounding the truce is quickly fading as events on the ground paint a more complex picture.
The ceasefire officially commenced on October 10 this year, following the tragic events of October 7, 2023. Israel agreed to a phased withdrawal, while Hamas committed to releasing hostages in exchange for the freedom of thousands of Palestinian prisoners.
Despite the agreement, tensions escalated shortly afterward. Israel resumed airstrikes and blocked humanitarian aid convoys, citing alleged violations by Hamas. Reports from Al Jazeera revealed that Israeli attacks in Gaza post-ceasefire led to the death of over 236 Palestinians and injuries to 600 others, indicating a strategy of maintaining control over Gaza under the guise of peace.
In response to the escalating crisis, Donald Trump announced plans for a US-coordinated international stabilisation force to be deployed in Gaza imminently. This proposal aligns with the UN Security Council’s intentions to establish a 20,000-strong stabilisation force in Gaza, involving Arab nations like Egypt, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey. The force would be authorized to use necessary measures to protect civilians, secure borders, and train Palestinian law enforcement.
However, significant hurdles remain. Hamas has not confirmed its disarmament, a key element of Trump’s plan, while Israel opposes Turkey’s involvement and insists on retaining control over Gaza’s security. During a joint press briefing with Trump in September 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s commitment to overseeing security in Gaza for the foreseeable future. The US clarified that it would not deploy troops, emphasizing the need for international legitimacy in the deployment to aid Palestinians in Gaza.
Despite the promising facade of a “stabilisation force,” there are concerns that it could become a tool for external control rather than genuine peace-building. The deal, seemingly driven by political expediency, serves Netanyahu’s agenda of maintaining authority and delaying Palestinian statehood, rather than fostering true reconciliation.
The situation in Gaza remains dire, with widespread destruction and a pressing need for reconstruction amounting to billions of dollars. International efforts to assist in rebuilding Gaza are complicated by political conditions and power dynamics, risking further external control over the region.
The ceasefire, while offering a temporary reprieve, is viewed as a strategic maneuver by Israel to consolidate power, leaving Palestinians in a state of uncertainty and dependency. The international community faces a critical choice in holding all parties accountable and working towards a sustainable political solution in the region.
The ultimate question now is not about the possibility of peace but the collective commitment to pursuing a genuine and lasting resolution to the conflict.