In a crucial meeting on Monday, U.S. mediator Jared Kushner and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sat down to map out the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, aiming to build on gains from phase one and tackle some of the most contentious issues left on the table.
Phase one, which is still underway, has focused on securing the release of remaining hostages. Now, both sides are turning their attention to phase two, a plan Israel says will include the disarmament of Hamas, the demilitarization of Gaza and ensuring that the group has no future role in the region's governance, according to Israeli government spokeswoman Shosh Bedrosian.
"Together, the two discussed phase one, which we are currently still in, to bring our remaining hostages, and the future of phase two of this plan, which includes the disarming of Hamas, demilitarizing Gaza and ensuring Hamas will have no role in the future of Gaza ever again," Bedrosian told reporters. "Phase two also includes the establishment of the international stabilization force, and the details of which of course together are being discussed."
But Hamas has stood firm, repeatedly insisting that relinquishing its weapons is a red line. This deadlock highlights the tension at the heart of any lasting ceasefire: how to balance security concerns with the political and humanitarian realities on the ground.
From New York to Berlin and beyond, young global citizens and business leaders are watching closely. If successful, phase two could pave the way for a new security architecture in Gaza — one supported by an international stabilization force that might include troops under U.N. or coalition mandates. Critics argue that without Hamas's buy-in, any disarmament effort risks sparking fresh violence, while supporters say it's the only path to lasting peace.
As talks continue, the world waits to see whether this high-stakes diplomatic push can overcome its biggest hurdle. What's your take on the phase two proposals? Join the conversation and share your perspective.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
