Gaza Ceasefire at Critical Juncture as Second Phase Stalls

Qatar's Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, has stated that the Gaza ceasefire has reached a "critical moment" as its first phase concludes, with the remains of one Israeli hostage still unrecovered.

Speaking at the Doha Forum, Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that the current pause cannot yet be considered a full ceasefire, citing the ongoing Israeli military presence and restricted mobility in Gaza. He noted that a true ceasefire requires a full withdrawal of Israeli forces and the restoration of stability and free movement in the region.

The initial phase of the U.S.-mediated peace plan, which began on October 10, included a halt in fighting and the exchange of hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners in Israel. However, the second phase, involving the deployment of an international security force, formation of a new technocratic government in Gaza, disarmament of Hamas, and eventual Israeli withdrawal, has yet to commence.

Turkey's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, highlighted uncertainties regarding the composition and mandate of the proposed international security force for Gaza. He stressed the need for a credible Palestinian civil administration and a trained, non-Hamas police force before proceeding with Hamas' disarmament.

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) has expressed concerns about its exclusion from current negotiations and the ongoing financial crisis, despite a renewed U.N. mandate. UNRWA continues to provide essential humanitarian services in Gaza, including food assistance, healthcare, and education, reaching over 2 million people since the ceasefire began.

Since the conflict erupted in October 2023, over 70,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis have died. Despite the ceasefire, violence persists, with recent reports of Israeli airstrikes resulting in Palestinian casualties. The situation remains volatile, with key stakeholders urging progress in implementing the next phase of the peace plan.