Gaza at a Crossroads: Trump Plan Faces Unresolved Hurdles

With the dust of conflict beginning to settle in Gaza and the first phase of the US-led peace initiative moving forward under President Donald Trump, the Palestinian question enters a critical juncture, as the world waits expectantly for what comes next. Recent days brought a major breakthrough: the release of all surviving Israeli hostages in exchange for thousands of Palestinian prisoners, alongside the first wave of humanitarian aid after two years of war devastation.

Yet, despite this progress, the plan faces major roadblocks in crucial areas: the disarmament of Hamas, the governance of Gaza, the fate of a future Palestinian state, and the massive reconstruction needs of the battered territory. These unresolved files create a hard test for all those seeking a lasting settlement.

Four Key Challenges to Peace

Hamas Disarmament: The group refuses to give up its weapons without a full Israeli withdrawal, while Israel insists that complete disarmament is a prerequisite for any new phase.

Gaza Reconstruction: Rebuilding is estimated to cost more than $53 billion, as international disagreements persist over funding and oversight mechanisms.

Post-War Gaza Governance: The US plan proposes an international body overseeing a technocratic Palestinian government, excluding Hamas from direct rule, pending broader reforms within the Palestinian Authority.

Future Palestinian State: Questions about timing and process remain unanswered, with Palestinian factions rejecting external impositions and the world watching for the next move.

International Oversight and Arab Force

The plan calls for the deployment of an Arab security force under UN auspices, with direct American support, to maintain stability during the staged Israeli withdrawal. Egypt is set to host an international conference soon to coordinate reconstruction and role distribution.

Deferred Peace: Hopes and Fears

Despite a cautiously optimistic atmosphere and progress on some fronts, analysts warn that Gaza's fate—as well as that of the broader region—depends on resolving these core issues and whether the peace plan can move forward without future setbacks. For now, peace remains an ambitious step shadowed by immense challenges.