Recent announcements regarding a peace deal in Gaza have sparked controversy and skepticism. U.S. President Donald Trump declared a ‘historic’ agreement between Israeli forces and the Palestinian militant group Hamas. This agreement aimed for Hamas to disarm completely and for Israel to withdraw its troops from Gaza. Trump portrayed it as a breakthrough towards peace.
However, Israeli government officials have expressed doubts about the deal’s effectiveness. Many are wary of the possibility that Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza could genuinely agree to disarm. Following the Board of Peace’s publication of the plan, Israel was advised to cease its military activities in Gaza ‘without delay.’
Despite these recommendations, Israel launched new attacks across the Gaza Strip. Medics reported at least 18 casualties on Sunday. Israeli military sources stated that the attacks targeted Hamas and other militant groups in different areas of the strip.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces an election in October. He has yet to fulfill his promise of achieving ‘total victory’ over Hamas, adding pressure to the situation. Concerns persist among Israelis regarding the threat posed by Hamas and the ability of international forces to effectively replace the security provided by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).
A ceasefire, facilitated by the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, technically remains in place in Gaza since October 2025. However, Israeli military actions have continued, leading to significant casualties and injuries in the region.
According to Gaza health officials, 1,250 people have died since the ceasefire’s initiation, with over 4,000 others injured. Since the conflict began in October 2023, a total of 73,375 people have died. Israel’s military efforts are in response to Hamas-led attacks that occurred on October 7, 2023, leading to the death of around 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251 hostages into Gaza.
The next phase of the peace process remains slow and suffers from complications, worsened by ongoing Israeli attacks. The Israeli military reported killing members of Palestinian militant groups over the weekend. Israeli strikes targeted various Hamas weapons facilities, including those near civilian infrastructures such as the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.
Mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey have called for Israel to cease its bombing campaign, emphasizing adherence to international law and the ceasefire commitments. Their statement warned of the growing civilian suffering in the Gaza Strip due to continued violence.
The United Nations has accused Israel of genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, leading to a case at the International Court of Justice by South Africa. Israel firmly denies these accusations. The humanitarian situation in Gaza is severe, with millions displaced and lacking essential resources amid extreme weather conditions.
Board of Peace representative Nickolay Mladenov urged Netanyahu to stop military operations in Gaza. Mladenov highlighted the destruction of medical supplies and civilian casualties, insisting on following the agreements established last year.
As Israel continues to extend its control over Gaza, moving beyond the previously set Yellow Line, disputes over disarmament and troop withdrawal remain unresolved. Hamas refuses to disarm until Israeli troops withdraw, raising concerns about future peace efforts.
The current impasse prompts questions about establishing trust and commitment from both sides to advance beyond the initial ceasefire and work on lasting peace.
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