President Donald Trump has called on Israel to stop its airstrikes on Gaza following Hamas’s agreement to release hostages and accept certain aspects of a US peace initiative. This development signals a potential end to a two-year conflict.
Israel has committed to swiftly implementing the initial phase of the plan, endorsed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during his visit to Washington. However, challenges remain, including uncertainties about the timeline for executing Trump’s proposal, logistical hurdles due to Gaza’s destruction, and unresolved issues such as Hamas’ disarmament and Israeli withdrawal.
Trump, emphasizing his determination to resolve the conflict through a 20-point plan, emphasized the broader goal of achieving peace in the Middle East. Despite previous failed ceasefire attempts, the current agreement faces obstacles, with key issues left unaddressed in Hamas’s response, notably its stance on disarmament.
Netanyahu’s approval of the plan, despite its conditional provisions for a potential Palestinian state, clashes with his previous stance against such a prospect. Contentious points include the terms of an Israeli pullback and the future governance of Gaza, with Hamas rejecting external leadership, including figures like Tony Blair.
The plan lacks a clear timetable, stating that the war would cease upon mutual acceptance. However, Hamas’s partial approval necessitates further negotiations through intermediaries, reflecting the need for a broader Palestinian consensus. The release of hostages, both living and deceased, poses challenges, especially in recovering bodies from Gaza’s rubble.
Netanyahu’s reaction to the agreement, influenced by Trump’s support, may strain his relations with his nationalist coalition partners who oppose concessions to Palestinians. The extent of Trump’s influence on Netanyahu to finalize the deal remains uncertain, with Washington playing a pivotal role in the process.
While the engagement of all parties in the plan marks a significant step, experts stress that it is only the beginning of a complex process. The success of the agreement hinges on sustained pressure on Netanyahu to adhere to its terms and prevent a resurgence of hostilities between Israel and Hamas.