Doha: Gaza ceasefire at a critical moment as talks push to phase two
Doha: Gaza ceasefire at a critical moment as talks push to phase two
Mediators push to move from a pause to a full ceasefire, aiming for a second phase with international security and disarmament.
Doha hosted the international forum where leaders described the Gaza ceasefire as at a critical moment as its first phase winds down. The discussion centers on moving from a pause to the second phase to cement the deal, with mediators led by the U.S. working to force the way forward. The spokesman emphasized that a full ceasefire cannot be declared until there is a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces and real stability for Gazans, noting that the current situation does not meet those conditions.
Despite the pause, violence continues. Health officials report new Israeli airstrikes northwest of Gaza City, resulting in Palestinian deaths, while tensions at ceasefire lines persist. On the ground, the Israeli army says it has targeted Palestinians crossing into Israeli-controlled territory near the ceasefire lines, reflecting the fragile state of the truce that began amid exchanges of hostages and prisoners in October.
The plan’s next phase, long discussed but not yet activated, envisions the deployment of an international security presence in Gaza, the formation of a technocratic government, disarmament of Hamas, and an eventual withdrawal of Israeli forces. Officials and mediators say an international body, potentially overseen by a high-level mediator team, would be essential to ensure compliance and to prevent a relapse into full-scale conflict.
Regional actors are pressing for concrete steps. Qatar and Egypt have urged Israel to withdraw and to support the next phase by coordinating with mediators and ensuring security arrangements that protect civilians while enabling reconstruction and normal life. As talks continue, observers warn that any perception of normalcy must be carefully managed to avoid setbacks, given the enduring fragility of the situation and the still-high casualty toll among Palestinians.
For now, the pause remains, with both sides watching for a credible framework that can deliver the promised second phase and, ultimately, a more stable and lasting arrangement for Gaza and the region.
Cover image source: Qatari leader says Gaza ceasefire is at critical moment 🔗
