The Status of the Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
A recent ceasefire agreement aimed to de-escalate conflict in Gaza, outlining several key conditions. These included the removal of Hamas from governing Gaza, to be replaced by a technocratic government; a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza; and the disarmament of Hamas, with provisions for amnesty for some members and safe passage to othre countries for others. Hamas responded by accepting the release of all captives and relinquishing governance to an “independent Palestinian management,” stating that remaining demands would be addressed within a broader Palestinian national framework.
Though, the implementation of the agreement has been fraught with challenges and accusations of violations from both sides.
Allegations of Israeli Violations:
The Government Media Office in Gaza reports 80 violations of the deal by Israel, resulting in the deaths of at least 97 Palestinians. Recent incidents include the fatal shooting of 11 members of the Abu Shaaban family, including seven children and three women, in the Zeitoun neighbourhood while attempting to reach their home. Further casualties were reported in air raids and attacks in Gaza on Sunday, and in the Shujayea neighbourhood on Monday, where Israel claimed those killed “posed a threat” after crossing an unmarked “yellow line” delineating the Israeli army’s pullback.
beyond direct military actions, Israel has also been accused of restricting aid deliveries, limiting the number of trucks allowed through the Rafah crossing to 300 – half the amount stipulated in the agreement – and keeping the crossing largely closed. Moreover,the Israeli government has indicated it may maintain a buffer zone within Gaza indefinitely,citing concerns about a “resurgent terror threat,” a provision that critics argue allows for a prolonged military presence.
Hamas’s Compliance:
Hamas has fulfilled its commitment to release all 20 living captives. Additionally, it has recovered and returned 12 of the 28 bodies of deceased captives. hamas has repeatedly asserted its commitment to the ceasefire,while acknowledging the difficulty of recovering remains due to the extensive destruction caused by Israeli bombing. They have stated that the recovery effort requires new equipment and external assistance to be effective. Gaza’s civil defence reports that over 10,000 Palestinian bodies remain trapped under rubble.
Humanitarian Situation and Return of Displaced Persons:
The situation for civilians remains dire. Widespread destruction has rendered entire neighbourhoods uninhabitable, making it impossible for residents to return home. The presence of the unmarked “yellow line” creates a risky environment,with Palestinians fearing being shot if they venture into areas perceived as under Israeli control. Rough estimates suggest the yellow line places approximately 58% of Gaza under Israeli control.
Access to food and essential resources remains severely limited due to ongoing restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Current Status of the Ceasefire:
Despite the reported violations and challenges, the status of the ceasefire remains contested. US President Trump has stated the ceasefire is still in affect and that US officials are working to maintain peace. Following attacks on Sunday, the Israeli army announced the resumption of the ceasefire alongside aid inflow. Hamas continues to publicly affirm its commitment to the terms of the agreement and the pursuit of a lasting peace.
