With All Israeli Hostages Recovered, U.N. Pushes for Next Steps in Gaza
Israel Addresses Next Phase of U.S.-Brokered Peace Plan
Following the return of the remains of the last Israeli hostage from Gaza, attention is now focused on the next complex phase of the U.S.-brokered peace plan between Israel and Hamas. This phase is expected to involve the reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt and the deployment of an international security force to stabilize the region.
The remains of Israeli polstart offstartr Ran Gvili, who was killed during the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023, were identified in a cemetery in northern Gaza. Gvili’s father expressed pride, stating, “The entire polstart is here with you, the entire army is with you, the entire people. I’m proud of you.”
Conditions for Reopening the Rafah Crossing
In a statement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated that a “limited reopening” of the Rafah crossing is contingent upon the return of all living hostages and Hamas’s full commitment to locating and returning all deceased captives. The Israeli military confirmed that all abductees have been returned, prompting Hamas to assert their compliance with the agreement.
Hamas spokesman Hazem Qassem reiterated the group’s commitment to all terms of the ceasefire agreement, urging the U.S. and other mediators to ensure Israel adheres to its commitments. The need for humanitarian aid has become increasingly urgent, with UNstartF announcing that supplies are ready to be deployed into Gaza as soon as the crossing reopens.
Humanitarian Aid and Infrastructure
The United Nations has emphasized the necessity of implementing the ceasefire arrangements. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called on all parties to expedite the next phases of the peace plan, enabling sustained humanitarian access, particularly through the Rafah Crossing.
Palestinians in Gaza view the crossing as vital for reconnecting with the outside world, with hopes that its reopening will facilitate travel and medical evacuations. Residents like Abdel-Rahman Radwan expressed optimism that the crossing’s reopening could alleviate some of the ongoing healthcare crises in the territory.
The Next Steps: Disarmament and Reconstruction
The upcoming phase of the peace plan also calls for the disarmament of Hamas, a significant hurdle given its two-decade rule over Gaza. Netanyahu reiterated that disarmament and demilitarization will take precedence over reconstruction efforts. U.S. officials have also indicated that they expect Hamas to comply with disarmament expectations as part of the agreement.
President Trump’s 20-point Gaza plan suggests that Hamas members who agree to peaceful coexistence and disarmament will receive amnesty, alongside secure exit options for those wishing to leave Gaza.
Concerns and Future Access for Media
Ongoing concerns persist among Palestinians regarding the ceasefire and whether it will result in meaningful improvements in living conditions. The Foreign Press Association of Israel has urged the country’s Supreme Court to allow independent media access to Gaza, arguing that current restrictions hinder accurate reporting and do not provide sufficient oversight.
As negotiations move forward, the outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the region’s future stability and humanitarian conditions.