Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has downplayed the significance of the U.S. announcement regarding the progression of the Gaza ceasefire, questioning the implementation of its more complex aspects. In a separate development, local health authorities reported that two Israeli airstrikes in Deir al-Balah, Gaza Strip, resulted in the deaths of seven individuals, including a senior Hamas figure. Both the Israeli military and Hamas have not responded to requests for comment on the incident. Hamas criticized the strikes on the Al-Holy family, accusing Israel of breaching the ceasefire and inciting conflict.
During a conversation with the parents of an Israeli hostage whose remains are still in Gaza, Netanyahu referred to the Palestinian governing committee announced for the second phase as a mere “declarative move.” The Hostage and Missing Families Forum in Israel had urged Netanyahu not to proceed with the ceasefire until their son’s remains were repatriated. Netanyahu reiterated the importance of bringing the hostage’s remains back to his parents.
The commencement of the ceasefire’s second phase signals progress, yet many uncertainties remain, including the composition of a proposed non-political Palestinian expert committee and an international “Board of Peace.” An anonymous Israeli official disclosed that the committee’s formation was coordinated with Israel. Other unresolved issues encompass the deployment timing of international forces, the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing, and specific plans for Hamas disarmament and Gaza reconstruction.
Ali Shaath, the designated head of the committee, projected a three-year timeline for reconstruction efforts, starting with immediate necessities like shelter. The second phase of the ceasefire will tackle more intricate challenges, such as disarming Hamas and transitioning to a new governance structure following nearly two decades of Hamas rule in Gaza.
Hamas stated its intention to dissolve its current government to pave the way for the committee announced in the second phase of the ceasefire. However, the fate of its military wing, Hamas-affiliated civil servants, and civilian police remains unclear. Bassem Naim of Hamas viewed the committee announcement as a step toward an independent Palestinian state, urging the U.S. and international mediators to permit its operation.
Despite the announcement of progress, violence persists in Gaza, with ongoing bloodshed and difficulties in securing basic necessities. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported over 450 fatalities since the ceasefire in October, including more than 100 children. Displaced individuals in Gaza expressed skepticism about tangible changes on the ground, emphasizing the urgent need for improved access to essentials like food, fuel, and medical care rather than empty promises.
Gaza’s population of approximately two million continues to face challenges during the winter months, struggling with cold weather, storms, humanitarian aid shortages, and a lack of adequate temporary housing. This marks the third winter since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began in October 2023, resulting in casualties and abductions on both sides.