Israeli forces have intensified military operations in the Gaza Strip following the announcement last week of a roadmap for the second stage of the Palestinian enclave’s ceasefire. Despite Hamas agreeing to a phased disarmament, Israel’s government has expressed "serious security concerns" and strong political resistance to the plan.

The Board of Peace and the International Stabilization Force (ISF), tasked with managing post-war Gaza, announced an agreement to implement the next phase of the ceasefire based on a detailed 15-point roadmap. However, Doron Spielman, spokesperson for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, stated that Israeli forces would not withdraw until Hamas is completely demilitarized, complicating the process.

The escalation has resulted in significant casualties in Gaza, with at least 19 Palestinians killed on Saturday alone, bringing the weekend death toll to 26, including women and children. This continued bombardment contributes to breaches of the ceasefire agreement reached in October and threatens the viability of the US-backed peace plan.

Political analysts suggest that Netanyahu’s government views acceptance of the agreement as a political and electoral setback ahead of Israeli elections scheduled for October 27. According to al-Hila, Netanyahu’s coalition opposes the deal because it preserves Palestinians’ right to resist, prevents displacement, and allows for Gaza’s rebuilding.

Additionally, al-Qarra noted that Israel perceives Hamas’s diplomatic strength as linked to its relationships with Qatar and Turkiye. Israel’s attempts to undermine Qatar’s role aim to isolate the Palestinian side and reduce regional political support that could enforce Israel’s compliance with its obligations.

United States President Donald Trump described Hamas’s acceptance of the Gaza deal as a monumental step toward security and stability, a view challenged by the ongoing violence and political complexities on the ground.

Sources