End of Gaza War and Prospects for Peace

In a landmark development, President Donald Trump announced the successful conclusion to the initial phase of his plan to end the conflict in Gaza. This agreement, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, involves Israel and Hamas reaching a ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces. It also allows immediate entry for humanitarian aid into Gaza. Both parties have confirmed their acceptance of this deal, which marks an end to one of the most severe human tragedies witnessed in recent decades.

Globally celebrated as a significant step toward peace, international delegations gathered in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, to witness and support this historic moment. President Trump expressed his honor in facilitating this agreement, emphasizing optimism for the Middle East’s future.

The world has every reason to celebrate this milestone that ends a bloody conflict responsible for over 67,000 Palestinian lives, including 20,000 children. The war displaced two million people, creating ongoing migration crises and causing the worst famine in Gaza’s history. It erased 2,700 families from the Palestinian civil registry and inflicted economic losses estimated at \(73 billion—a burden shared by Israelis who suffered more than 2,000 casualties and nearly \)90 billion in military equipment damage. Additionally, Israel faced heightened international isolation as many countries recognized Palestine in response to Israeli efforts to undermine a two-state solution.

The United Arab Emirates, which had supported international and regional peace efforts from the war’s outset and been the largest humanitarian supporter of Gaza’s people, welcomed President Trump’s announcement. The UAE highlighted its significant role in supporting this path and expressed hope that the agreement would alleviate human suffering in Gaza, paving the way for a fair and lasting settlement that ensures Palestinian rights while restoring security and stability to the region.

While any discussion about halting the war is cause for celebration, caution remains essential due to the issue’s complexity. The execution of Trump’s plan’s initial phase should not overshadow challenges associated with subsequent stages, including governance in Gaza post-war, Hamas’ future role, and unclear indications of who will govern Gaza after the conflict.

Despite Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump, Western, and Arab countries excluding Hamas from any role—Hamas still refuses to discuss Israel’s demand for disarmament. Palestinians and Arabs hope Trump’s plan leads to an independent Palestinian state, a prospect Netanyahu rejects outright.

Ensuring the comprehensive implementation of this plan is crucial. Its success could unlock opportunities for achieving broader regional peace—a goal shared by all.

原始文章来源：Al Bayan