Nearly a year after an international agreement aimed at restoring peace and rebuilding Gaza was announced, the situation on the ground remains largely unchanged, with Israel maintaining control over around 60 percent of the territory. Despite the establishment of a US-led Board of Peace to oversee reconstruction and the formation of a new Palestinian government, tensions persist between Israel and Hamas, leaving Gaza’s residents caught in a protracted stalemate.
The agreement, intended to facilitate a massive reconstruction effort, has yet to result in significant progress. Israel continues to conduct military operations targeting Hamas positions within Gaza, frequently resulting in civilian casualties. Hamas, while stating its willingness to dissolve its government in favor of a new Palestinian authority, insists it will not disarm until Israel completes its withdrawal from Gaza. Israel, in turn, has reiterated that any withdrawal would only occur after Hamas has been disarmed, effectively maintaining the status quo.
Locals in Gaza express growing frustration with the ongoing impasse and the slow pace of rebuilding efforts. Mohammed Suhweil, a 67-year-old pharmacist displaced with his family in Khan Yunis, questioned the feasibility of reconstruction under the current circumstances. “We want to understand how [Hamas leader Hayya] believes reconstruction can happen,” he said, highlighting the doubts shared by many Palestinians regarding the Board of Peace’s ability to deliver lasting relief amid continuing conflict.
Residents also voice concerns that the division of control between Israel and Hamas has frozen the conflict without resolving its underlying issues. Ahmed Fayez, a father of seven, remarked, “There’s no difference between today and months ago,” underscoring the living conditions marked by insecurity, displacement, and a devastated infrastructure.
The situation remains precarious as recent Israeli strikes have prompted Hamas to reconsider its participation in the Board of Peace agreement. A senior Hamas official stated that the group is “weighing our options regarding the next steps” and indicated that “everything is on the table.” This signals the potential unraveling of cooperation efforts, which would further complicate reconstruction and peace prospects.
Civilian casualties and damage to vital infrastructure continue to exacerbate humanitarian challenges in Gaza. Funerals for victims and reports of destruction highlight the toll the conflict has taken on the population. Despite international calls for a ceasefire and relief measures, the cycle of violence and political deadlock shows little sign of abating.
The ongoing conflict underscores the difficulties faced by the international community in mediating between deeply entrenched positions, with both Israel and Hamas appearing to prioritize maintaining control over their respective areas rather than making substantive concessions. As the population of Gaza endures the consequences, hopes for reconstruction and peace remain elusive.