Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu criticized the U.S. announcement regarding the progress of the Gaza ceasefire as mainly symbolic, expressing doubts about the implementation of the more difficult aspects.
In Gaza, two Israeli airstrikes led to the deaths of seven individuals in Deir al-Balah, including a senior Hamas figure. Hamas denounced the attacks, accusing Israel of violating the ceasefire and trying to reignite hostilities.
Netanyahu met with the parents of Ran Gvili, an Israeli police officer whose remains are still in Gaza, reassuring them that his return remained a top priority. The announcement of the second phase of the ceasefire raised significant questions, especially concerning the composition of the proposed Palestinian governing committee and the international “Board of Peace.”
Ali Shaath, the designated head of the committee, estimated that the reconstruction efforts in Gaza could take up to three years, focusing initially on urgent needs like shelter. The ceasefire’s second phase faces challenges such as disarming Hamas and transitioning to a new governance structure after years of Hamas rule in Gaza.
Hamas has expressed willingness to dissolve its existing government to pave the way for the new committee but has not clarified the fate of its military arm and affiliated civil servants. Meanwhile, violence continues in Gaza despite the ceasefire progress, leading to numerous casualties, including children.
The people of Gaza expressed skepticism about the tangible impact of moving into Phase 2, emphasizing the ongoing struggles for basic necessities amid the conflict. The population, facing shortages of aid and temporary housing, hopes for real change rather than empty promises as they endure the harsh winter conditions.