Phase two of President Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza faces significant challenges, primarily due to Hamas's refusal to disarm, as announced by U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff. The plan's progression is clouded by a "huge lack of clarity and detail" regarding the future of the Gaza Strip and its 2.1 million Palestinian residents, according to sources familiar with the matter.
Witkoff stated that failure to disarm would "bring serious consequences," setting a contentious stage for the next phase. Hamas views its weapons as essential for resistance against what it describes as Israel's decades-long military occupation. This stance creates a major obstacle, potentially reigniting conflict, as some members of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government are eager to resume military operations.
The Gaza Strip remains devastated after two years of conflict, adding complexity to the peace process. The demand for disarmament is a central point of contention, with Hamas maintaining its position despite the potential ramifications. U.S. intelligence estimates suggest that Hamas has likely recruited more new members in Gaza than have been killed by Israel during the conflict, indicating the group's resilience and continued influence.
The lack of specific details in Trump's plan raises concerns about its feasibility and long-term impact. The international community is closely watching the developments, as the stability of the region hinges on the successful implementation of a comprehensive and equitable peace agreement. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether the parties can overcome these initial hurdles and move towards a more sustainable resolution.
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