One week ago, US President Donald Trump was welcomed in Israel after successfully negotiating a ceasefire and the exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners. However, recent events highlight the fragility of this truce, with a significant flare-up occurring on Sunday.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) conducted a series of bombings across Gaza, claiming it was a response to an attack that resulted in the deaths of two Israeli soldiers in Rafah. Hamas, asserting it had lost communication with fighters in the area, denied responsibility for the attack.
This escalation prompted Israel to suspend aid deliveries, demonstrating the stakes involved. Yet, it appears US intervention prevented the truce from collapsing entirely, leading to the reopening of Israeli crossings with Gaza on Monday. Mediators must now engage actively to stabilize the agreement and address unresolved questions regarding Gaza's future.
Trump's special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, are actively pursuing negotiations with Hamas and Egyptian mediators regarding Trump’s 20-point peace initiative. Key points of discussion include deploying an international peacekeeping force, withdrawing Israeli troops, and the disarmament of Hamas.
Both Palestinians and Israelis are reeling from this latest rupture. Emotions ran high at the funeral of 14-year-old Mohammed, who was killed in an Israeli strike, with his father expressing regret over allowing him outside due to a perceived sense of security under the ceasefire.
Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed at least 45 Palestinians, with local hospitals indicating that many of the casualties were civilians, including children. The IDF stated it targeted a multitude of “Hamas terror sites,” including a café believed to house armed fighters.
In the wake of these events, Trump emphasized the importance of maintaining the ceasefire while also noting potential internal strife within Hamas. The IDF, while clarifying that its operations were within the ceasefire parameters, has faced accusations from Hamas of fabricating justifications to resume hostilities.
Looking ahead, Israeli leaders are under pressure as parliament reconvenes, with discussions around ensuring strict compliance with the ceasefire terms. Concurrently, Hamas has hinted at a willingness to establish a politically neutral governing body while still retaining control over Gaza’s security situation, further complicating the peace process.
As US officials continue their diplomatic efforts, including meetings in Cairo, the path toward a durable peace remains fraught with challenges. Vice President JD Vance affirmed the ceasefire as the best hope for sustainable peace, despite acknowledging its "fits and starts."
