A standoff between Israel and Hamas is defining the fragile post-truce period in Gaza. While Hamas refuses to disarm, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is moving to consolidate control over the region’s future, declaring Israel will have veto power over a planned international force.
“Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us,” Netanyahu stated flatly on Sunday. He has already signaled this would apply to Turkey, due to strained relations. The US supports this condition, with Secretary ofState Marco Rubio stating the force must be “comfortable” for Israel.
Rubio also stressed that Hamas would be barred from any future governance of Gaza. Discussions are underway in Qatar, possibly for a UN resolution, to formalize the multinational force, which could include nations like Egypt and Indonesia.
The ceasefire, brokered by Donald Trump, is being tested daily. Hamas has reportedly cracked down on rival factions, while Israel conducted a strike on the Nuseirat camp, targeting alleged Islamic Jihad militants. Hamas condemned the strike as a “violation.”
A dispute over the return of remains also threatens the peace. Trump has warned Hamas to accelerate the return of Israeli hostage bodies, which Hamas claims is difficult due to the destruction.
